Mandal

Mandal is a city and municipality in the county of Vest-Agder, Norway.

It is the most southernmost town of Norway, and belongs to the geographical region Sørlandet. Mandal is famous for its long-stretching beaches surrounding the town. Sjøsanden (The Sea Sand) is probably the most famous beach, as it stretches for almost a kilometre just outside the town centre. Mandal is a very popular holiday resort, with its mild and refreshing summer climate.

Of other sightseeings, is the church. Mandal kirke is the largest wooden church in Norway, with 1800 seats and a pulpit on the wall over the altar.

The famous sculptor Gustav Vigeland (1869-1943) was born in Mandal, and has a road named after him in his home town. Vigeland created Vigeland Sculpture Park (Vigelandsparken) in Oslo.

The painter Adolph Tiedemand (1814-1876) was also born in Mandal. His most famous painting is the national romantic image of a traditional wedding on the Hardanger fjord, which he made together with Hans Gude .

Because of these and other artists coming from Mandal, the town is sometimes called "The Little Town with the Great Artists".