Unveiling the Enchanting Norwegian Filming Locations of Netflix's Ragnarok

Summary

Ragnarok, a Norwegian series on Netflix, transports us to modern-day Norway and immerses us in the captivating world of Nordic mythology. The story revolves around Magne, a young adolescent who discovers his true identity as the reincarnation of Thor. In a race against time, he confronts other powerful Nordic gods who are responsible for an escalating environmental catastrophe.

Ragnarok sets itself apart from other mythology-based shows by showcasing lesser-known actors and highlighting Nordic mythology over Greek or Roman. The show's unique setting in Odda, Norway strikes a delicate balance between reality and fantasy, with industrial elements providing a grounding touch and vast landscapes creating a sense of wonder.

In reality, the picturesque town of Odda, Norway serves as the backdrop for the fictional town of Edda, offering breathtaking mountains, fjords, and hiking trails that bring an authentic Scandinavian Peninsula ambiance. The show further adds authenticity by incorporating actual landmarks, establishing a strong connection between the reborn gods and the Norwegian environment.

Filmed in Norway, the fantasy drama Ragnarok utilizes diverse landscapes to bring Nordic mythology to modern-day Norway. As a teenager named Magne discovers his supernatural abilities, he realizes he is the reincarnation of the god Thor. To protect his town from Edda's environmental crisis caused by other Nordic gods, Magne must confront them head-on. With its well-written plot and fast-paced storytelling, Ragnarok captivates even the most skeptical viewers.

What sets this series apart from others based on mythology is its ensemble of intriguing characters portrayed by lesser-known actors. Furthermore, Ragnarok differentiates itself by drawing from Nordic mythology instead of the more commonly portrayed Greek and Roman mythos. Despite the rising popularity of Nordic gods due to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, their integration in storytelling remains relatively uncommon. Moreover, Ragnarok's captivating setting elevates the show's quality. The town of Edda strikes a delicate balance between realism and fantasy, with its grounded buildings and industrial elements complemented by breathtaking landscapes that make it truly extraordinary.

Odda, Norway

The fictional town of Edda is an adaptation of the real town of Odda, Norway—the primary filming location for Ragnarok, as stated by IMDb. According to Routes North, Odda is a charming town situated at the end of the Søfjorden, encompassed by majestic snow-capped mountains. It is renowned for being home to one of Norway's initial hydroelectric power stations, a fact that is incorporated into Ragnarok. As the showrunners abstained from using artificial sets, Odda, Norway appears in every scene of the series.

Choosing Odda as the setting for Edda was a perfect decision due to its stunning mountains, scenic hiking trails, and picturesque fjords. The environment authentically represents the essence of the Scandinavian Peninsula, which is pivotal for a show revolving around the Nordic gods. The vast expanses of Odda's landscapes contribute a sense of awe and enchantment to Ragnarok, almost transcending reality. Furthermore, the presence of various landmarks in Odda allows the reborn gods to forge genuine connections with the genuine Norwegian surroundings, rather than a substitute location.

Sjukehusvegen 24

Boliden Odda

Sjukehusvegen 24, as stated by LatLong.net, serves as the filming location for both the interiors and exteriors of Magne's home in the acclaimed series Ragnarok. This specific location can be observed in every installment of the Netflix show. The architectural style utilized for the home's exterior is inspired by Scandinavian design. Furthermore, the interior follows a straightforward layout that is effortless to navigate. The relatively small size of Sjukehusvegen 24 contributes to creating a charming atmosphere in the town of Edda. Moreover, it encourages family members to engage with one another more frequently due to the limited space available. With little to no privacy, everyone becomes acquainted with each other's affairs, resulting in captivating family dynamics.

Distractify reported that Jutul Industries A/S scenes in Ragnarok were filmed at Boliden Odda, a zinc smelter notorious for causing an actual environmental crisis in Odda, Norway. According to the Boliden website, this metal smelter discharged industrial waste into Søfjorden, resulting in severe water pollution that transformed the fjord into one of the world's most contaminated water ecosystems. To mitigate further pollution, Boliden Odda took a more sustainable approach by constructing storage caverns for waste, an eco-conscious alternative to discharging it into the fjord.

Boliden Odda's factory is prominently showcased in all three seasons of Ragnarok due to the contamination of Edda's drinking water caused by Jutul Industries A/S. The show draws inspiration from real-life incidents in Odda, with a central focus on water pollution. The contrasting visuals of the caverns and factory against the backdrop of Odda's natural surroundings create a captivating juxtaposition within the town of Edda. Furthermore, Jutul Industries' former factory holds significant mythological importance in the story as it houses the Eternal Fire from the Old World.

Sørfjord

Ragnarok's filming took place alongside Sørfjorden, a picturesque arm of the magnificent Hardangerfjord. The expansive waters serve as an atmospheric backdrop for contemplative moments among the characters. Moreover, they serve as a striking contrast to the unsettling and depraved acts committed by the Norse gods. Witnessing Vidar devour a deer's heart while standing against the backdrop of the splendid fjord and majestic mountains somehow heightens the sense of their inhumanity. Notably, the fjord also plays a vital role in the Jutul Industries A/S crisis, functioning as a significant plot device within the show. Ultimately, Odda and Sørfjorden contribute to establishing the contemporary mythological setting of Ragnarok.

Sources: Routes North, LatLong.net, Distractify, Boliden