Stavanger stresses its role as an open port, focused on the outside world. Local traditions of international collaboration are several centuries old, and this south-west Norwegian city regards itself as part of the mainstream of European culture.

That position helped it to be chosen as a European Capital of Culture in 2008.

Almost 150 nationalities are currently represented in Stavanger and its surrounding Rogaland county, many of them attracted by the oil and gas business. Most of the companies in Norway’s petroleum industry have their head offices here.

Other key features of this region include its cultural life and superb landscapes. Like its industry, culture in Rogaland is characterised by a local entrepreneurial spirit.

Art, film, music, theatre and numerous festivals – celebrating everything from food and humour to chamber music – have definitely put this region on the cultural map.

And visitors can experience majestic scenery along Rogaland’s sandy beaches, among its fjords and islands and in its mountains and valleys – all within an hour’s drive from Stavanger.

Petrad urges everyone who participates in its Norwegian programmes to learn what the region has to offer. It has also posted a number of links which provide useful information about Norway.