This seaport town gives name to one of the four grand divisions of Norway, and is said to have derived its appellation from the abundance of sand in and about it, which is rarely to be met with in Norway. It is defended by two Castles; the principal streets are at right angles, covered with sand three or four inches deep. The episcopal church is a fair edifice in form of across, built of stone whitewashed, with a tower and clock; the roof is of glazed brown pantiles. It is very neatly fitted up within, and provided with chambers, pews, organ, font, &c. &c. The edifice is surrounded by a neat cemetery, containing some handsome monuments; beneath a spreading yew is one to Hans Henric Tybring, late Bishop of Christiansand, who died February, 13th, 1798. Many reputable merchants, traders, and ship-builders reside here. Their houses are large quadrangular buildings of timber, having ample and spacious apartments accommodated with court-yards; within well furnished and decorated. Being wood, they are generally painted lead colour or dark red; the window frames and chimneys are painted uniformly white. They have watchmen who proclaim the wind blowing, and the hour.

The ships in the harbour of Fleceroe are seen from this spot on the right in the distance. This town was destroyed by fire in 1734. On the left is Torrisdals river, and from the adjacent mountain is seen that terrible precipice which terminates the chain of the Norwegian alps.