Poesiparken is not a traditional park, but a collection of literary installations scattered throughout Larvik. Poems, song lyrics and quotations appear on building walls, steps, pavements and stones, offering new perspectives on familiar places. Some texts catch you by surprise, while others can be found using the overview on Poesiparken's website. Take your time to read along the way and experience Larvik from a different perspective.
An idea by Louis Jacoby
Poesiparken was established in 2006 following an idea by Norwegian singer-songwriter Louis Jacoby. Together with Larvik Municipality and the local business community, the project was developed to bring poetry and literature into public spaces. Its vision is to create enjoyment, a sense of belonging and local identity through the written word. The installations encourage reflection and an interest in reading while giving Larvik's streets and squares a literary character.
Join a guided poetry walk
If you would like to learn more about the texts and their stories, you can join an organised poetry walk. The Friends of Poesiparken have traditionally arranged guided walks on Mondays in July. Participants explore a selection of installations and learn more about the poetry found throughout the town. Dates and availability may vary. Check Visit Vestfold's event calendar for upcoming poetry walks and other literary events in Larvik.
Combine poetry with other experiences
A walk through Poesiparken can easily be combined with other attractions in Larvik. Visit Herregården, the historic residence built for Governor-General Ulrik Fredrik Gyldenløve in the 1670s. You can also continue to Bøkeskogen, a beech forest with walking trails and views of Lake Farris. It's an opportunity to combine literature, local history and nature in one outing.
Plan your visit
Poesiparken has no single entrance or enclosed park area. Its installations are located throughout central Larvik and can be explored independently. The publicly accessible installations can be visited throughout the year, free of charge. No tickets or advance booking are required. Choose a few installations to visit in advance or discover them while walking through town. Ground surfaces and accessibility vary between locations.
Poesiparken's contact address is Feyers gate 7, 3256 Larvik. This is not a designated meeting point for the installations.
Visit the official Poesiparken website for more information and an overview of the installations and their locations.