The doors to the University Aula are open! Right in the heart of Oslo city center, you can experience Edvard Munch's world-renowned works, including "The Sun" and the other 10 Aula paintings.
These paintings are displayed in the Aula as a result of a competition launched by the University of Oslo in 1909: Who should decorate the new banquet hall at the University of Oslo? After much deliberation, Edvard Munch emerged as the winner of this competition, and his winning contribution still hangs in the Aula to this day.
You can learn more about this story in this short film clip.
It's worth noting that the sketches for these paintings are displayed at the Munch Museum, while you can experience the eleven original artworks with us, completely free of charge!
The Aula hosts provide simple guided tours at 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm.
Audio guide for the University Aula
If you don't have time for a guided tour with the hosts, you can always listen to our audio guide! Through your phone, you can enhance your visit to the Aula with fascinating stories about the building and the art you see around you.
Both entrance and the tours are free of charge.
See Edvard Munch's early versions of the auditorium paintings
At MUNCH in Bj?rvika, you can for the first time see the earlier versions of the auditorium paintings gathered on the wall in the exhibition Earth Vibrations. The exhibition is open between April 27th and August 25th, 2024, and the museum is open every day.
Practical information
If you need elevator access or other kinds of assistance during your visit, contact us at: +47 90 13 17 55.
On Munch's Aula decorations
Edvard Munch's Aula paintings were painted during the period 1909–1916, and has adorned the walls of the University Aula ever since.
The eleven magnificent images represent the university's faculties through the lives of ordinary people and Norwegian nature. The Sun, Alma Mater and History are the most famous.
In Munch's time, the hall paintings were controversial, today they are a real national treasure that many come to experience.
Read more about the Aula decorations