Holberg Prize
The prize was established by the Parliament of Norway in 2003 and first awarded in 2004. It recognizes scholars who have made exceptional contributions in the arts, humanities, social sciences, law, and theology. Laureates receive a monetary award of 6 million Norwegian kroner to support their research. Candidates are nominated by academic institutions, shortlisted by the Holberg Committee, and approved by the government. Laureates are announced each March, and the award ceremony takes place every June at the University Aula in Bergen. The prize promotes interdisciplinary scholarship and is often referred to as the "Nobel Prize" for the arts and humanities, social sciences, law and theology.
22
Laureates
2004
First awarded
March each year
Announcement
Government of Norway
Presented by
Awards by year
Outstanding scholarly work in the fields of the arts and humanities, social sciences, law and theology
History
In 2003, the Parliament of Norway established the Holberg Prize in honor of Ludvig Holberg. The first award ceremony was held in 2004 at the University Aula in Bergen, with Julia Kristeva as the inaugural laureate. Since then, it has been awarded annually across its five disciplines: the arts, humanities, social sciences, law, and theology. The selection process involves nominations from academic institutions, shortlisting by the Holberg Committee, and final approval by the government. The award ceremony takes place each June at the University of Bergen, accompanied by the Holberg Week featuring lectures and symposiums.
2025
2024
2023
2022
2021
2020
2019
2018
2017
2016
2015
2014
2013
2012
2011
2010
2009
2008
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2005
2004