The history

The bird island Runde’s history until today.

• Post-Ice Age Settlement (~10,000 years ago): After the last Ice Age, early human settlement occurred along the Norwegian coast, including areas like Runde, relying on boats, hunting, and fishing in the rich coastal environment.
• Viking and Medieval Period: The region around Sunnmøre, including Runde, has ties to Viking history and coastal trade. Legends mention possible Spanish Armada or other foreign ships wrecked in the area (e.g., Castillo Negro in the 1500s), though these are less documented.
• 1725 – The Akerendam Shipwreck (Runde Treasure): On March 8, the Dutch VOC ship Akerendam sank north of Runde during a storm. The entire crew of about 200 perished. The ship was carrying large quantities of gold and silver coins (over 500 kg). The wreck was rediscovered in 1972 by sports divers, who recovered around 57,000 coins (including 6,600 gold coins). This is one of the largest coin treasures ever found in Europe and led to changes in legislation regarding the protection of wrecks.
• 1767 – Runde Lighthouse Established: Built as the sixth lighthouse in Norway (the first north of Stadt) due to numerous ship accidents. Originally a coal-fired beacon. The lighthouse has saved countless lives in this weather-beaten area.
• 1880 – Dramatic Accident: A major accident claimed the lives of 8 people (most from Runde). The details are linked to maritime or coastal activities under the challenging conditions of the time.
• 1934 – Fire at Runde Lighthouse: The old lighthouse burned down and was replaced by new light structures. The lighthouse was manned for 235 years until it was automated in 2002.
• World War II Era (1940s): German Occupation and Bombing: During the German occupation of Norway, German forces were present on Runde. The old lighthouse was bombed by Allied forces and had to be rebuilt. Remnants of bunkers or fortifications may still be visible near the lighthouse area
• 1957: Birdlife on Runde is protected, laying the foundation for conservation and tourism.
• Pre-1982 Ferry Services: For decades, ferries (e.g., MF «Rosesund» and others) connected Runde to the mainland and neighboring islands, serving as the primary lifeline.
• 1982 – Runde Bridge Opens: The bridge across Rundasundet between Remøya and Runde was opened on March 5, 1982. It is 428 meters long and made the island accessible by car. This was a major milestone that dramatically increased accessibility and tourism.
• 1992 – The Arisan Shipwreck: On January 12, the ore carrier Arisan ran aground at Geitemaren off Runde. This caused an oil spill near the bird cliffs and highlighted issues with emergency preparedness and environmental protection. The incident led to improvements in rescue operations.
• 2002 – Automation: After 235 years of being manned, the lighthouse became fully automatic. The keeper’s residence is now used as self-catering tourist accommodation.
• 2009 – Runde Environmental Centre Opens: A modern visitor center, research station, and interpretive center that opened on October 1, 2009. The center features exhibitions on the Runde Treasure, birdlife, the environment, and local history, and serves as a key hub for tourists and research.
• 2013 – Ramsar Wetland Designation: Parts of Runde recognized internationally for its wetland and bird importance.

This list is not exhaustive — Runde has countless smaller stories of survival, fishing, and daily life in a tough coastal environment. For more depth, a visit to the Runde Environmental Centre is highly recommended, where much of the history (including coins from the Akerendam) is on display.