Red Boathouses (Flåm)

The iconic red boathouses and fishermen's huts (known as naust or rorbuer) that line the shores of Flåm. Historically, the color of a Norwegian building was a direct indicator of social status and wealth. Red was the cheapest paint available, while white was most expensive. Mixing the red pigment with cod liver oil or animal fat created a breathable, weather-resistant barrier that effectively sealed the pine wood and prevented it from rotting in the wet marine environment.