# Kristiansand

> settlement in Kristiansand Municipality, Norway

**Wikidata**: [Q26772254](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q26772254)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/kristiansand-q26772254

## Summary
Kristiansand is a city and urban settlement in Kristiansand Municipality, Agder county, Southern Norway. Founded in 1641 by King Christian IV of Denmark, it serves as the administrative center of Agder and was previously the capital of the former Vest-Agder county until 2019. Known for its cultural and economic significance, Kristiansand has received recognition such as the Most Attractive City Award in 2018 and is home to notable institutions like the football club IK Start and the handball club Vipers Kristiansand.

## Key Facts
- **Founding and Naming**: Kristiansand was established in 1641 and named after King Christian IV of Denmark, who ruled Denmark and Norway from 1588 to 1648.
- **Geographical Location**: Located in Southern Norway, Kristiansand has coordinates at 58.14671° N, 7.9956° E.
- **Administrative Role**: It serves as the capital of Agder county (since 2020) and was previously the capital of Vest-Agder county (1919–2019).
- **Population**: As of 2025, the population is estimated at 67,920, with steady growth observed over the years (e.g., 61,536 in 2017, 64,596 in 2020).
- **Area**: The city covers approximately 24.91 square kilometers (as of 2017), with slight variations in subsequent years.
- **Awards**: Kristiansand was awarded the Most Attractive City Award in 2018 by the Norwegian government.
- **Sports Clubs**: Home to IK Start (founded 1905), Kristiansands IF (founded 1921), and Vipers Kristiansand (founded 1938).
- **Economic Presence**: Headquarters of Mer (a Norwegian charging station operator, founded 2009) and Hugoworld (a record label, founded 2002).
- **Cultural and Historical Significance**: The city is classified as an urban area in Norway and has a rich history tied to its founding by Christian IV.

## FAQs
**When was Kristiansand founded?**
Kristiansand was founded in 1641 by King Christian IV of Denmark, who named the city after himself.

**What is the population of Kristiansand?**
As of 2025, the estimated population is 67,920, with consistent growth recorded annually.

**What awards has Kristiansand received?**
Kristiansand was awarded the Most Attractive City Award in 2018 by the Norwegian government, recognizing its urban development and appeal.

**What sports clubs are based in Kristiansand?**
Kristiansand is home to several sports clubs, including IK Start (football, founded 1905), Kristiansands IF (multi-sport, founded 1921), and Vipers Kristiansand (handball, founded 1938).

**What is the administrative role of Kristiansand?**
Kristiansand serves as the capital of Agder county (since 2020) and was previously the capital of Vest-Agder county (1919–2019).

**What companies are headquartered in Kristiansand?**
Notable companies headquartered in Kristiansand include Mer (charging station operator, founded 2009) and Hugoworld (record label, founded 2002).

## Why It Matters
Kristiansand plays a pivotal role in Southern Norway as a cultural, economic, and administrative hub. Its founding by Christian IV of Denmark ties it to significant historical events, while its modern recognition as the Most Attractive City Award winner highlights its contemporary relevance in urban development. The city's sports clubs and economic institutions contribute to its vibrant community and regional influence, making it a key player in Norway's social and economic landscape.

## Notable For
- Being founded in 1641 by King Christian IV of Denmark.
- Serving as the capital of Agder county and formerly Vest-Agder county.
- Winning the Most Attractive City Award in 2018.
- Hosting prominent sports clubs like IK Start and Vipers Kristiansand.
- Being the headquarters of companies like Mer and Hugoworld.
- Consistent population growth, reflecting its appeal and development.

## Body
### History and Founding
Kristiansand was established in 1641 by King Christian IV of Denmark, who ruled both Denmark and Norway during the early 17th century. The city was named in his honor, reflecting its royal origins. Historically, Kristiansand has been a significant settlement in Southern Norway, evolving from a small town to a major urban center.

### Administrative Role
Kristiansand serves as the administrative capital of Agder county, a role it has held since January 1, 2020. Prior to this, it was the capital of Vest-Agder county from 1919 until the county's dissolution in 2019. This administrative significance underscores its importance in regional governance and planning.

### Geography and Demographics
Located at coordinates 58.14671° N, 7.9956° E, Kristiansand covers an area of approximately 24.91 square kilometers (as of 2017). The city's population has shown steady growth, with estimates reaching 67,920 by 2025. This demographic trend reflects its appeal as a residential and economic hub.

### Awards and Recognition
In 2018, Kristiansand was awarded the Most Attractive City Award by the Norwegian government. This award recognizes the city's efforts in urban development, cultural initiatives, and overall appeal, highlighting its status as a model for other Norwegian cities.

### Sports and Cultural Institutions
Kristiansand is home to several notable sports clubs, including:
- **IK Start**: A football club founded on September 19, 1905.
- **Kristiansands IF**: A multi-sport club founded on January 19, 1921.
- **Vipers Kristiansand**: A handball club founded on January 12, 1938.

These institutions contribute to the city's vibrant sports culture and community engagement.

### Economic Presence
Kristiansand hosts the headquarters of several companies, including:
- **Mer**: A Norwegian operator of charging stations, founded in 2009.
- **Hugoworld**: A record label founded in 2002, contributing to the city's cultural and economic landscape.

### Related Entities
Kristiansand is closely associated with several entities, including:
- **Agder County**: The current administrative region of which Kristiansand is the capital.
- **Vest-Agder**: The former county for which Kristiansand served as the capital until 2019.
- **Christian IV of Denmark**: The king who founded and named the city.

These connections highlight Kristiansand's historical and contemporary significance in Norway.

## References

1. [2018](https://www.regjeringen.no/no/tema/kommuner-og-regioner/by--og-stedsutvikling/attraktiv_by/juryvurdering-attraktiv-by-2018/id2603577/)
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3. [Tettsteders befolkning og areal. Statistics Norway](https://www.ssb.no/befolkning/statistikker/beftett/aar)
4. [Alders- og kjønnsfordeling i kommuner, fylker og hele landets befolkning (K) 1986 - 2020. Statistics Norway. 2024](https://www.ssb.no/statbank/table/04859/)
5. [Alders- og kjønnsfordeling i kommuner, fylker og hele landets befolkning (K) 1986 - 2021. Statistics Norway. 2024](https://www.ssb.no/statbank/table/04859/)
6. [Alders- og kjønnsfordeling i kommuner, fylker og hele landets befolkning (K) 1986 - 2022. Statistics Norway. 2024](https://www.ssb.no/statbank/table/04859/)
7. [Alders- og kjønnsfordeling i kommuner, fylker og hele landets befolkning (K) 1986 - 2023. Statistics Norway. 2024](https://www.ssb.no/statbank/table/04859/)
8. [Alders- og kjønnsfordeling i kommuner, fylker og hele landets befolkning (K) 1986 - 2024. Statistics Norway. 2024](https://www.ssb.no/statbank/table/04859/)
9. [Alders- og kjønnsfordeling i kommuner, fylker og hele landets befolkning (K) 1986 - 2025. Statistics Norway. 2025](https://www.ssb.no/statbank/table/04859/)
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