A controversial statue of Norwegian World War II resistance hero Max Manus will move from its current location at Akershus Fortress. The monument has overlooked Oslo for 14 years from the historic fortress where Manus conducted his most successful sabotage operations during the Nazi occupation.
The statue's relocation comes after officials determined its current placement lacks sufficient public visibility. Two potential new locations have been proposed for the bronze likeness of the famous resistance fighter. Both sites offer views of the Oslofjord where Manus operated during the war.
One suggested location is Langkaia near Havnelageret, while the other is Kongsbakkeallmenningen in Bjørvika. Defense property managers and Oslo Harbor Authority now hold responsibility for selecting the statue's permanent home.
Mette Manus, daughter of the war hero, expressed enthusiasm about both proposed sites. She emphasized the importance of placing her father's statue in a dignified location connected to his wartime activities. The historical significance of the placement matters greatly to the family.
This relocation resolves longstanding controversy surrounding the monument's placement. Initial plans to install the statue at Aker Brygge in 2011 faced strong opposition from fellow resistance fighters. Veterans Sverre Kokkin and Leif Kjemperud from the Pelle Group objected vehemently to that location.
The two war heroes argued that placing Max Manus's statue at Aker Brygge would constitute historical inaccuracy. They noted Manus never participated in sabotage operations at that specific location. Their intervention forced reconsideration of the original placement plans.
Following considerable public debate, the statue ultimately found its temporary home at Akershus Fortress. The Pelle Group later received their own monument at Aker Brygge in 2013, acknowledging their distinct contributions to Norway's resistance movement.
Mette Manus reflects on the initial placement controversy as an unfortunate chapter. She acknowledges the situation eventually resolved satisfactorily but describes the process as uncomfortable for all involved.
Christopher Carlsen, section chief at Defense Property Management, confirms they will take necessary time to identify an appropriate permanent location. The selection process will involve coordination with municipal authorities to ensure the statue receives the prominent placement it deserves.
The relocation highlights ongoing efforts to properly commemorate Norway's complex wartime history. As one of the most famous figures from the resistance movement, Max Manus represents both heroic sacrifice and the difficult decisions resistance fighters faced during occupation.
This statue movement comes amid broader reevaluation of how European nations memorialize their World War II histories. The careful consideration of placement demonstrates continued reverence for Norway's liberation struggle while acknowledging historical complexities.
Max Manus remains one of Norway's most celebrated wartime figures, known for daring sabotage missions against German shipping in Oslofjord. His most famous operation sank the transport vessel Donau, significantly disrupting Nazi logistics operations.