The Bryggen wharf was set up by Norwegian tradesmen many years before the Hanseatic league arrived in Bergen and took over life in the wharf buildings for the next 400 years. The Hanseatic league was a male society ruled by the principles of hard work and even harder discipline. But despite their austere structure, they made time for festivities. Behind the wharf façade were the Schøtstuene, a gathering place and site for celebrations where all could come together – tradesmen, hired labour and foremen – or invite guests.
Today, Svensgårdens Schøtstue – built in 1708 – and the Ildhuset firehouse, which represents the kitchen for Schøtstuene, are a part of Bryggen Tracteursted. Svensgårdens Schøtstue is a listed building, and the only building among Bryggen wharf to remain on its original site.