The square is large, but irregular; and as it is used as a general market-place, it is also very dirty.
[Picture: Christiania] In the suburbs the houses are mostly built of wood.

There are some rather pretty public buildings; the finest among them are the royal castle and the fortress.

They are built on little elevations, and afford a beautiful view.

The old royal palace is in the town, but not at all distinguishable from a common private house.

The house in which the Storthing {48} assembles is large, and its portico rests on pillars; but the steps are of wood, as in all stone houses in Scandinavia.