Botsen

Botsen is the commonly used name for the former Botsfengselet section of Oslo Prison, a historic prison complex in Oslo. The old prison was originally built in the 19th century and later became part of Oslo Prison, but for many Norwegians it is just as strongly associated with film as with prison history. Its heavy brick architecture, high walls and tree-lined approach give the place a very recognisable identity, especially from the many times it appears in the Olsenbanden films.

Botsen is best known from the “Olsenbanden” film series, where it appears as the prison Egon Olsen is released from at the start of many of the films. This repeated opening became one of the most familiar images in Norwegian film comedy: Egon walks out through the prison gate with a new plan, while Benny and Kjell are waiting outside, ready to be pulled into another impossible scheme. The location became so closely tied to the series that the allé in front of the prison is now named Egon Olsens allé.

In the “Olsenbanden” films, Botsen functions almost like a ritual starting point. Egon’s release marks the beginning of a new plot, a new “genius” plan and another round of chaos for the gang. The prison is not usually the main setting of the story, but its repeated use gives the films a clear rhythm and a strong sense of continuity. For fans of Norwegian cinema, Botsen remains one of the most iconic real-world Olsenbanden locations in Oslo.

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