Bardu

Norway's largest military garrison is located at Setermoen. The military is the municipality's largest employer and more than 1000 young men perform their duty service here each year.

Bardu has over the years produced several internationally renowned Nordic combined performers. The most honoured is Fred Børre Lundberg. The world's most northern zoo, Polar Zoo is located in the municipality.

The Bardu valley and river seen from Istind in the direction of Setermoen

Bardu, although not far from the coast, is known for its cold winters compared to the coastal areas. This is caused by mountains usually blocking the milder, coastal air from reaching the Bardu valley. In summer, however, it is usually warmer than the coastal areas. The largest lake in the county, Altevatnet, is located in the municipality.

[edit] The name

Bardu is a Norwegianized form of the Sámi name Beardu. The meaning of the Sámi name is probably 'long and steep mountain side'.

Until 1889 the municipality was called "Bardodalen" ('the valley/dale of Bardo'). In the period 1889-1908 the name was written "Bardo", from 1909 on "Bardu".

[edit] Coat-of-arms

The coat-of-arms is from modern times (1980). It shows a wolverine.

Lynx in Polar Zoo, Bardu.

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