Meet
Clio and Urania

In ancient mythology, every art form was given its own protector. The nine muses were the daughters of Zeus and Mnemosyne, the very embodiment of memory. Everything they guarded, they protected simply by remembering—by refusing to let the ravages of time erase what truly matters. Two of them have found their way here to Dronningens gate. Clio, the muse of history, carries her scroll with dignity. Urania, the muse of astronomy and the starry sky, rests her hand securely on a globe. Ever since this villa rose from the ashes of the 1879 fire, the pair have stood as silent guardians in the facade niches of Dronningens gate 28.

Clio, the one who remembers

The name Clio stems from the Greek word meaning to tell, for renown and fame. Her life's mission is to ensure that the past is remembered and lives on among people. The scroll she carries is her defining attribute. Everything that matters is written down.

This address has undoubtedly given her plenty to fill her parchment with. In 1837, Hôtel du Nord opened its doors in Trondheim, and just two years later, the host family moved both their business and their guests here to this street. Since then, travelers have always found an open door and a made bed.

Urania, looking to the future

The name Urania means "the heavenly." The globe she rests her hand against represents the celestial vault itself, and the compass she is often depicted with is the tool to navigate it safely. An ancient author once wrote that she lifts those she teaches up toward the stars.

Where Clio preserves the past, Urania represents the part of the house that looks to the future. Villa Nord is not like a museum of its own history, but a living legacy. The rooms and meals are crafted with care for the guests who step through the doors today.