Utøya facts for kids
Utøya is a small island in the Tyrifjorden lake in Hole municipality, Norway. For many years, Utøya has been a special place for young people. It is owned by the Workers' Youth League (AUF), which is the youth organization of the Labour Party in Norway. The island is mainly used for their summer camps, where young people gather to learn about politics, discuss important topics, and have fun.
On July 22, 2011, Utøya became the site of a very sad event. Many young people attending the summer camp lost their lives. This day is remembered as a national tragedy in Norway. Today, Utøya continues to be a place for youth activities, but it also serves as a place of remembrance and learning, honoring those who were lost.
Contents
About Utøya Island
Utøya is a beautiful island, about 10.6 hectares (26 acres) in size. It is located in the large Tyrifjorden lake, which is one of Norway's biggest lakes. The island is covered with trees and has open areas, making it a great spot for outdoor activities.
The Island's Purpose
Since 1950, Utøya has been a meeting place for the Workers' Youth League (AUF). Every summer, thousands of young people come to the island for their annual summer camp. These camps are important for teaching young people about democracy and how to get involved in society. They learn about politics, discuss current events, and develop leadership skills. It's a place where future leaders and thinkers are encouraged.
Activities at the Camp
During the summer camps, young people participate in many activities. These include political debates, workshops, and discussions on various topics. There are also fun activities like sports, swimming, and cultural events. The camp helps young people connect with each other, share ideas, and build friendships.
A Place of Remembrance
After the tragic events of 2011, Utøya was partly rebuilt and redesigned. It now includes special places for remembrance and reflection. These areas help visitors understand what happened and honor the memory of those who died. The island continues to host summer camps, showing that hope and learning can continue even after difficult times.
The Hegnhuset Building
One important new building on the island is called Hegnhuset. It was built around the old cafeteria building, which was a central place during the 2011 events. Hegnhuset is designed to be a learning center. It teaches visitors about the importance of democracy, standing up against hate, and remembering the past. It's a place where young people can learn from history and work towards a better future.
Images for kids
-
The ferry MS Thorbjørn at the arrival pier at Utøya. The nearest white-painted house is one of the original houses on the island.
-
The place of memorial is called "the clearing" Lysninga; a part of it is "the ring" Ringen
-
Hegnhuset in 2017
.jpg)
.jpg)
See also
In Spanish: Utøya para niños
