Learn about the nature, culture and economic life of the region with a sightseeing tour of Alta and its surroundings. Elevated to city status in 2000 when the villages of Bossekop, Elvebakken and central Alta were joined, the city is home to one of Northern Norway's largest educational and research centers. Once you enter the city, you'll travel through the neighborhood of Bossekop, where Dutch whalers settled in the 17th century; Elvebakken, in the east, settled in the 1700s by refugees from Finland and now home to the airport and harbor, and central Alta with its pedestrian shopping centers. From Alta, you'll head south to the slate quarry of Paeskatun. Known worldwide for its strength and quality, Pæskatun slate is used for furniture, monuments, signs, giftware, and other products. Step inside the production hall for a look at the modern slate industry and take in the fantastic view over the Alta Valley and the fjord.