Tønsberg Travel Guide - Complete Norway Destination
Discover Tønsberg, Norway. Comprehensive travel guide with detailed information about history, geography, culture, attractions, and visitor information for this unique destination.
Quick Info
- Country:Norway
- State/Province:Vestfold
- Population:55939


States in Norway
- Agder
- Akershus
- Buskerud
- Finnmark
- Innlandet
- Møre og Romsdal
- Nordland
- Oslo
- Rogaland
- Telemark
- Troms
- Trøndelag
- Vestfold
- Vestland
- Østfold
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Tønsberg Travel Guide - Complete Norway Destination
Tønsberg Tønsberg, historically Tunsberg, is a city in Tønsberg Municipality in Vestfold county, Norway. It is located about 102 kilometres south-southwest of the capital city of Oslo on the western coast of the Oslofjord near its mouth onto the Skagerrak. The city is the most populous metropolis in Vestfold county. Tønsberg also serves as the administrative centre for Vestfold county and the seat of the County Governor of Vestfold og Telemark.
Tønsberg is situated in Vestfold, within Norway, representing a distinctive destination with its own unique character, cultural heritage, and community identity. The area offers visitors and residents alike a comprehensive range of local attractions, community amenities, cultural experiences, and regional significance that contribute to its reputation as a noteworthy destination within Norway.
Tønsberg is positioned at coordinates 59.27°, 10.41°, home to approximately 55,939 residents, contributing to its distinctive geographic profile, demographic characteristics, and environmental setting. These fundamental characteristics influence the local climate, community development patterns, economic activities, and overall visitor experience, creating a unique sense of place that distinguishes Tønsberg from other destinations in the region.
Visitors to Tønsberg can explore numerous aspects that make this Norway destination particularly noteworthy, including its rich local heritage, vibrant community life, diverse cultural attractions, significant regional importance, and authentic local experiences. The area provides extensive opportunities for cultural exploration, community engagement, historical discovery, and appreciation of local traditions alongside contemporary developments and innovations.
The community of Tønsberg welcomes visitors with a combination of historical authenticity, cultural richness, and modern amenities that create memorable experiences for travelers seeking to understand and appreciate the distinctive character of Norway destinations. Whether interested in historical heritage, geographic features, cultural experiences, community life, or regional exploration, Tønsberg offers multiple perspectives and opportunities for meaningful engagement with local traditions, contemporary developments, and community values.
History and Heritage
The historical development and cultural heritage of Tønsberg encompass a rich tapestry of events, influences, and traditions that have shaped the community's identity over time. Understanding the historical context provides valuable insights into the forces that have contributed to the contemporary character of Tønsberg. The preservation and interpretation of historical heritage remains an important priority for the community, ensuring that future generations can appreciate and learn from the experiences of those who came before. Historical research and documentation efforts continue to uncover new information about the development of Tønsberg, adding depth and nuance to our understanding of the community's evolution.
History #Viking Age Tønsberg Fortress Tønsberg Cathedral Tønsberg is the oldest city in Norway,: 230 founded by Harald Fairhair in the 9th century. This aspect of Tønsberg represents a significant element in understanding the community's character and development. The information provides valuable insights into the distinctive features that define Tønsberg within its regional context. Understanding these characteristics helps visitors and residents appreciate the unique qualities that make Tønsberg a noteworthy destination.
It was also an ancient capital of Norway. The development and evolution of these features in Tønsberg reflect broader patterns of growth and change in the region. Local residents and community leaders have worked to preserve and enhance these important aspects of Tønsberg's identity. Visitors to Tønsberg can observe how these elements contribute to the overall atmosphere and character of the community. The ongoing maintenance and development of these features demonstrate the community's commitment to preserving its distinctive identity.
The first time the town was mentioned by a contemporary writer was in 1130. According to Snorri Sturluson, Tønsberg was founded before the Battle of Hafrsfjord, which, according to Snorri, took place in 871. The broader context of Tønsberg within its regional setting provides additional perspective on these important characteristics. Community members and visitors alike benefit from understanding how these elements fit into the larger picture of Tønsberg's development. The integration of these features with other aspects of community life creates a comprehensive picture of what makes Tønsberg unique. Ongoing research and documentation help preserve knowledge about these important aspects of Tønsberg for future generations.
In contemporary Tønsberg, these characteristics continue to play an important role in community life and development. Modern residents of Tønsberg work to balance preservation of traditional elements with adaptation to changing needs and circumstances. The community's approach to managing these aspects reflects a thoughtful consideration of both historical significance and future requirements. Visitors to Tønsberg can observe how the community successfully integrates respect for its heritage with progressive planning for the future. This balance between tradition and innovation represents one of the defining characteristics of modern Tønsberg.
For visitors exploring Tønsberg, these elements provide opportunities for meaningful engagement with the community's distinctive character. The accessibility and presentation of these features make it possible for tourists and other visitors to gain authentic insights into Tønsberg. Local guides and community members often share additional information that enhances the visitor experience in Tønsberg. The community's welcoming approach to tourism ensures that visitors can appreciate these aspects while respecting local customs and preferences. Many visitors to Tønsberg report that understanding these elements significantly enriches their overall experience of the destination.
Looking toward the future, Tønsberg continues to develop strategies for maintaining and enhancing these important community characteristics. Community planning processes in Tønsberg regularly consider how to preserve essential elements while accommodating growth and change. The involvement of residents in these planning discussions ensures that future development in Tønsberg reflects community values and priorities. Sustainable approaches to managing these aspects help ensure that future generations will be able to appreciate and benefit from them. The long-term vision for Tønsberg includes continued attention to these foundational elements of community identity and character.
The historical heritage of Tønsberg continues to serve as a foundation for community identity and pride, influencing contemporary development while preserving important connections to the past. Ongoing efforts to document, preserve, and interpret historical resources ensure that this heritage remains accessible and relevant for current and future residents of Tønsberg. The integration of historical awareness into community planning and development helps maintain the distinctive character that makes Tønsberg a unique and valued place to live and visit.
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Geography and Location
The geographic setting and natural environment of Tønsberg play fundamental roles in defining the community's character, development patterns, and relationship with the surrounding region. The physical characteristics of the landscape influence everything from settlement patterns to economic activities, creating a unique sense of place that distinguishes Tønsberg from other communities. Environmental factors continue to shape daily life in Tønsberg, affecting transportation, recreation, agriculture, and other important aspects of community life. The community's relationship with its natural environment reflects both practical considerations and deeper cultural values about stewardship and sustainability.
Geography Tønsberg Wharf in city centre Tønsberg is a city southeastern in Vestfold County, on the western shore of the Oslofjord. This aspect of Tønsberg represents a significant element in understanding the community's character and development. The information provides valuable insights into the distinctive features that define Tønsberg within its regional context. Understanding these characteristics helps visitors and residents appreciate the unique qualities that make Tønsberg a noteworthy destination.
Tønsberg lies north of Færder, south of Horten, and north-east of Sandefjord. The development and evolution of these features in Tønsberg reflect broader patterns of growth and change in the region. Local residents and community leaders have worked to preserve and enhance these important aspects of Tønsberg's identity. Visitors to Tønsberg can observe how these elements contribute to the overall atmosphere and character of the community. The ongoing maintenance and development of these features demonstrate the community's commitment to preserving its distinctive identity.
It is the ninth-largest city in Norway (by population). The city center lies just north of Nøtterøy Island. The broader context of Tønsberg within its regional setting provides additional perspective on these important characteristics. Community members and visitors alike benefit from understanding how these elements fit into the larger picture of Tønsberg's development. The integration of these features with other aspects of community life creates a comprehensive picture of what makes Tønsberg unique. Ongoing research and documentation help preserve knowledge about these important aspects of Tønsberg for future generations.
In contemporary Tønsberg, these characteristics continue to play an important role in community life and development. Modern residents of Tønsberg work to balance preservation of traditional elements with adaptation to changing needs and circumstances. The community's approach to managing these aspects reflects a thoughtful consideration of both historical significance and future requirements. Visitors to Tønsberg can observe how the community successfully integrates respect for its heritage with progressive planning for the future. This balance between tradition and innovation represents one of the defining characteristics of modern Tønsberg.
For visitors exploring Tønsberg, these elements provide opportunities for meaningful engagement with the community's distinctive character. The accessibility and presentation of these features make it possible for tourists and other visitors to gain authentic insights into Tønsberg. Local guides and community members often share additional information that enhances the visitor experience in Tønsberg. The community's welcoming approach to tourism ensures that visitors can appreciate these aspects while respecting local customs and preferences. Many visitors to Tønsberg report that understanding these elements significantly enriches their overall experience of the destination.
Looking toward the future, Tønsberg continues to develop strategies for maintaining and enhancing these important community characteristics. Community planning processes in Tønsberg regularly consider how to preserve essential elements while accommodating growth and change. The involvement of residents in these planning discussions ensures that future development in Tønsberg reflects community values and priorities. Sustainable approaches to managing these aspects help ensure that future generations will be able to appreciate and benefit from them. The long-term vision for Tønsberg includes continued attention to these foundational elements of community identity and character.
The geographic advantages and natural characteristics of Tønsberg remain fundamental to its development potential, environmental sustainability, and quality of life for residents and visitors. Geographic considerations continue to influence planning decisions, infrastructure development, and community growth strategies in Tønsberg. The community's ongoing relationship with its natural environment reflects both practical needs and deeper values about environmental stewardship and sustainable development.
Climate and Weather
The climate patterns and weather conditions in Tønsberg represent important factors in understanding the local environment, seasonal rhythms, and quality of life for residents and visitors. Weather patterns influence agricultural activities, outdoor recreation, tourism seasons, and many other aspects of community life in Tønsberg. The community has developed various strategies for adapting to and making the most of local climate conditions, from seasonal festivals to infrastructure design. Understanding climate patterns helps visitors plan their activities and appreciate the seasonal variations that add richness to the Tønsberg experience.
Climate Climate data for Tønsberg - Kilen 1999–2020 (3 m) Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Daily mean °C (°F) −1. This aspect of Tønsberg represents a significant element in understanding the community’s character and development. The information provides valuable insights into the distinctive features that define Tønsberg within its regional context. Understanding these characteristics helps visitors and residents appreciate the unique qualities that make Tønsberg a noteworthy destination.
2) Average precipitation mm (inches) 73 (2. The development and evolution of these features in Tønsberg reflect broader patterns of growth and change in the region. Local residents and community leaders have worked to preserve and enhance these important aspects of Tønsberg’s identity. Visitors to Tønsberg can observe how these elements contribute to the overall atmosphere and character of the community. The ongoing maintenance and development of these features demonstrate the community’s commitment to preserving its distinctive identity.
7) Source: yr. no (mean, precipitation) 1. The broader context of Tønsberg within its regional setting provides additional perspective on these important characteristics. Community members and visitors alike benefit from understanding how these elements fit into the larger picture of Tønsberg’s development. The integration of these features with other aspects of community life creates a comprehensive picture of what makes Tønsberg unique. Ongoing research and documentation help preserve knowledge about these important aspects of Tønsberg for future generations.
In contemporary Tønsberg, these characteristics continue to play an important role in community life and development. Modern residents of Tønsberg work to balance preservation of traditional elements with adaptation to changing needs and circumstances. The community’s approach to managing these aspects reflects a thoughtful consideration of both historical significance and future requirements. Visitors to Tønsberg can observe how the community successfully integrates respect for its heritage with progressive planning for the future. This balance between tradition and innovation represents one of the defining characteristics of modern Tønsberg.
For visitors exploring Tønsberg, these elements provide opportunities for meaningful engagement with the community’s distinctive character. The accessibility and presentation of these features make it possible for tourists and other visitors to gain authentic insights into Tønsberg. Local guides and community members often share additional information that enhances the visitor experience in Tønsberg. The community’s welcoming approach to tourism ensures that visitors can appreciate these aspects while respecting local customs and preferences. Many visitors to Tønsberg report that understanding these elements significantly enriches their overall experience of the destination.
Looking toward the future, Tønsberg continues to develop strategies for maintaining and enhancing these important community characteristics. Community planning processes in Tønsberg regularly consider how to preserve essential elements while accommodating growth and change. The involvement of residents in these planning discussions ensures that future development in Tønsberg reflects community values and priorities. Sustainable approaches to managing these aspects help ensure that future generations will be able to appreciate and benefit from them. The long-term vision for Tønsberg includes continued attention to these foundational elements of community identity and character.
Climate considerations in Tønsberg continue to play important roles in community planning, agricultural practices, tourism development, and daily life for residents and visitors. Understanding and adapting to climate patterns helps the community make informed decisions about various activities and developments in Tønsberg. The community’s approach to climate adaptation demonstrates resilience and forward-thinking planning that benefits both current residents and future generations.
Demographics and Population
The demographic composition and population characteristics of Tønsberg provide insights into the community’s social structure, cultural diversity, and development trends. Population data helps community leaders and residents understand changing needs and plan for future growth and development in Tønsberg. The diversity of backgrounds, ages, and experiences among residents contributes to the rich social fabric that defines contemporary Tønsberg. Demographic trends also influence economic development, educational planning, and community service provision in Tønsberg.
Demographics Historical population Year1801181518251835184518551865187518911900191019201930194619511960197019802000200920202023 Pop. This aspect of Tønsberg represents a significant element in understanding the community’s character and development. The information provides valuable insights into the distinctive features that define Tønsberg within its regional context. Understanding these characteristics helps visitors and residents appreciate the unique qualities that make Tønsberg a noteworthy destination.
1,5431,4901,9071,9702,2452,8744,5415,1747,2158,6119,76912,56811,99711,88312,20812,59111,2849,24743,34647,46553,01855,387 ±% p. The development and evolution of these features in Tønsberg reflect broader patterns of growth and change in the region. Local residents and community leaders have worked to preserve and enhance these important aspects of Tønsberg’s identity. Visitors to Tønsberg can observe how these elements contribute to the overall atmosphere and character of the community. The ongoing maintenance and development of these features demonstrate the community’s commitment to preserving its distinctive identity.
47% Source: Statistics Norway and Norwegian Historical Data Centre The whole urban area of the city of Tønsberg is the 9th most populous city/urban area in Norway and the largest city in Vestold County. 31-square-kilometre (6,500-acre) city has a population (2023) of 55,387 and a population density of 2,105 inhabitants per square kilometre (5,450/sq mi). The broader context of Tønsberg within its regional setting provides additional perspective on these important characteristics. Community members and visitors alike benefit from understanding how these elements fit into the larger picture of Tønsberg’s development. The integration of these features with other aspects of community life creates a comprehensive picture of what makes Tønsberg unique. Ongoing research and documentation help preserve knowledge about these important aspects of Tønsberg for future generations.
In contemporary Tønsberg, these characteristics continue to play an important role in community life and development. Modern residents of Tønsberg work to balance preservation of traditional elements with adaptation to changing needs and circumstances. The community’s approach to managing these aspects reflects a thoughtful consideration of both historical significance and future requirements. Visitors to Tønsberg can observe how the community successfully integrates respect for its heritage with progressive planning for the future. This balance between tradition and innovation represents one of the defining characteristics of modern Tønsberg.
For visitors exploring Tønsberg, these elements provide opportunities for meaningful engagement with the community’s distinctive character. The accessibility and presentation of these features make it possible for tourists and other visitors to gain authentic insights into Tønsberg. Local guides and community members often share additional information that enhances the visitor experience in Tønsberg. The community’s welcoming approach to tourism ensures that visitors can appreciate these aspects while respecting local customs and preferences. Many visitors to Tønsberg report that understanding these elements significantly enriches their overall experience of the destination.
Looking toward the future, Tønsberg continues to develop strategies for maintaining and enhancing these important community characteristics. Community planning processes in Tønsberg regularly consider how to preserve essential elements while accommodating growth and change. The involvement of residents in these planning discussions ensures that future development in Tønsberg reflects community values and priorities. Sustainable approaches to managing these aspects help ensure that future generations will be able to appreciate and benefit from them. The long-term vision for Tønsberg includes continued attention to these foundational elements of community identity and character.
Demographic trends and population characteristics in Tønsberg continue to evolve, reflecting broader social and economic changes while maintaining the community’s distinctive character and values. Population dynamics influence resource allocation, community service planning, and development priorities in Tønsberg. The community’s approach to managing growth and change while preserving its essential character demonstrates thoughtful planning and community engagement.
Economy and Industry
The economic landscape and industrial activities in Tønsberg encompass various sectors and enterprises that contribute to local prosperity, employment opportunities, and community development. Economic diversity helps ensure resilience and stability for Tønsberg, providing multiple sources of income and opportunity for residents. The business community in Tønsberg includes both established enterprises and emerging ventures, creating a dynamic economic environment. Economic development efforts focus on building on existing strengths while exploring new opportunities for growth and innovation in Tønsberg.
Economy Øvre Langgate street (Tønsberg) Tønsberg is mostly a shopping town and an administrative centre. This aspect of Tønsberg represents a significant element in understanding the community's character and development. The information provides valuable insights into the distinctive features that define Tønsberg within its regional context. Understanding these characteristics helps visitors and residents appreciate the unique qualities that make Tønsberg a noteworthy destination.
It is also noted especially for its silverware. The development and evolution of these features in Tønsberg reflect broader patterns of growth and change in the region. Local residents and community leaders have worked to preserve and enhance these important aspects of Tønsberg's identity. Visitors to Tønsberg can observe how these elements contribute to the overall atmosphere and character of the community. The ongoing maintenance and development of these features demonstrate the community's commitment to preserving its distinctive identity.
Economy Øvre Langgate street (Tønsberg) Tønsberg is mostly a shopping town and an administrative centre. The broader context of Tønsberg within its regional setting provides additional perspective on these important characteristics. Community members and visitors alike benefit from understanding how these elements fit into the larger picture of Tønsberg's development. The integration of these features with other aspects of community life creates a comprehensive picture of what makes Tønsberg unique. Ongoing research and documentation help preserve knowledge about these important aspects of Tønsberg for future generations.
In contemporary Tønsberg, these characteristics continue to play an important role in community life and development. Modern residents of Tønsberg work to balance preservation of traditional elements with adaptation to changing needs and circumstances. The community's approach to managing these aspects reflects a thoughtful consideration of both historical significance and future requirements. Visitors to Tønsberg can observe how the community successfully integrates respect for its heritage with progressive planning for the future. This balance between tradition and innovation represents one of the defining characteristics of modern Tønsberg.
For visitors exploring Tønsberg, these elements provide opportunities for meaningful engagement with the community's distinctive character. The accessibility and presentation of these features make it possible for tourists and other visitors to gain authentic insights into Tønsberg. Local guides and community members often share additional information that enhances the visitor experience in Tønsberg. The community's welcoming approach to tourism ensures that visitors can appreciate these aspects while respecting local customs and preferences. Many visitors to Tønsberg report that understanding these elements significantly enriches their overall experience of the destination.
Looking toward the future, Tønsberg continues to develop strategies for maintaining and enhancing these important community characteristics. Community planning processes in Tønsberg regularly consider how to preserve essential elements while accommodating growth and change. The involvement of residents in these planning discussions ensures that future development in Tønsberg reflects community values and priorities. Sustainable approaches to managing these aspects help ensure that future generations will be able to appreciate and benefit from them. The long-term vision for Tønsberg includes continued attention to these foundational elements of community identity and character.
Economic development in Tønsberg continues to adapt to changing conditions while building on existing strengths and exploring new opportunities for growth and prosperity. Economic diversification and innovation contribute to long-term stability and resilience for the Tønsberg community. The ongoing collaboration between business, government, and community organizations helps ensure that economic development serves the broader interests of Tønsberg residents and visitors.
Culture and Community
The cultural life and community traditions of Tønsberg reflect the values, creativity, and social connections that define the local identity and quality of life. Cultural activities and community events provide opportunities for residents to come together, celebrate shared values, and welcome visitors to Tønsberg. The preservation and development of cultural traditions help maintain community cohesion while allowing for growth and change in Tønsberg. Community organizations and cultural institutions play important roles in fostering civic engagement and cultural expression in Tønsberg.
In popular culture Tønsberg has been featured as a location in several films, most notably those set in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). This aspect of Tønsberg represents a significant element in understanding the community’s character and development. The information provides valuable insights into the distinctive features that define Tønsberg within its regional context. Understanding these characteristics helps visitors and residents appreciate the unique qualities that make Tønsberg a noteworthy destination.
It is first mentioned in the 2010 film Iron Man 2 as a location under surveillance by S. The development and evolution of these features in Tønsberg reflect broader patterns of growth and change in the region. Local residents and community leaders have worked to preserve and enhance these important aspects of Tønsberg’s identity. Visitors to Tønsberg can observe how these elements contribute to the overall atmosphere and character of the community. The ongoing maintenance and development of these features demonstrate the community’s commitment to preserving its distinctive identity.
In the 2011 film Thor , it is established that centuries ago, Tønsberg was the invasion point of the Frost Giants of Jotunheim, who sought to conquer Earth before they were defeated by Odin and the forces of Asgard. It is then seen in Captain America: The First Avenger , where the Red Skull acquires the Tesseract from a church. The broader context of Tønsberg within its regional setting provides additional perspective on these important characteristics. Community members and visitors alike benefit from understanding how these elements fit into the larger picture of Tønsberg’s development. The integration of these features with other aspects of community life creates a comprehensive picture of what makes Tønsberg unique. Ongoing research and documentation help preserve knowledge about these important aspects of Tønsberg for future generations.
In contemporary Tønsberg, these characteristics continue to play an important role in community life and development. Modern residents of Tønsberg work to balance preservation of traditional elements with adaptation to changing needs and circumstances. The community’s approach to managing these aspects reflects a thoughtful consideration of both historical significance and future requirements. Visitors to Tønsberg can observe how the community successfully integrates respect for its heritage with progressive planning for the future. This balance between tradition and innovation represents one of the defining characteristics of modern Tønsberg.
For visitors exploring Tønsberg, these elements provide opportunities for meaningful engagement with the community’s distinctive character. The accessibility and presentation of these features make it possible for tourists and other visitors to gain authentic insights into Tønsberg. Local guides and community members often share additional information that enhances the visitor experience in Tønsberg. The community’s welcoming approach to tourism ensures that visitors can appreciate these aspects while respecting local customs and preferences. Many visitors to Tønsberg report that understanding these elements significantly enriches their overall experience of the destination.
Looking toward the future, Tønsberg continues to develop strategies for maintaining and enhancing these important community characteristics. Community planning processes in Tønsberg regularly consider how to preserve essential elements while accommodating growth and change. The involvement of residents in these planning discussions ensures that future development in Tønsberg reflects community values and priorities. Sustainable approaches to managing these aspects help ensure that future generations will be able to appreciate and benefit from them. The long-term vision for Tønsberg includes continued attention to these foundational elements of community identity and character.
Cultural vitality and community engagement in Tønsberg continue to thrive through active participation in traditions, events, and organizations that strengthen social connections and community identity. Cultural activities and community life enhance the quality of life for residents while creating welcoming experiences for visitors to Tønsberg. The ongoing development of cultural resources and community programs helps ensure that Tønsberg remains a vibrant and engaging place to live, work, and visit.
Planning Your Visit to Tønsberg
When planning a comprehensive visit to Tønsberg, travelers should consider the numerous aspects that make this destination unique within Norway, including the rich cultural heritage, distinctive geographic setting, welcoming community atmosphere, and diverse range of experiences available to visitors. The local characteristics, historical significance, and community amenities provide visitors with extensive opportunities for exploration, learning, and meaningful cultural engagement.
The regional context of Tønsberg offers valuable insights into broader cultural and geographic patterns while maintaining its distinctive local character and community identity. Visitors can experience authentic community life, explore significant local traditions, appreciate unique architectural and natural features, and gain understanding of the historical and contemporary factors that define this remarkable Norway destination.
Whether interested in comprehensive historical heritage exploration, detailed geographic feature appreciation, immersive cultural experiences, authentic community life engagement, or extensive regional discovery, Tønsberg provides multiple perspectives and opportunities for meaningful interaction with Norway destinations. The combination of significant local attractions, comprehensive community resources, important regional significance, and welcoming local hospitality creates extensive opportunities for meaningful cultural exchange, educational exploration, and memorable travel experiences.
Visitors planning extended stays in Tønsberg will find that the community offers both the amenities necessary for comfortable accommodation and the authentic experiences that create lasting memories of Norway travel. The balance between preserving traditional character and embracing contemporary developments ensures that Tønsberg continues to offer relevant and engaging experiences for travelers seeking authentic destinations that provide both historical significance and modern convenience.
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