Countries are represented through their embassies and consulates, the former responsible for promoting the interests of the home country, handling diplomatic relations and supporting its citizens. Embassies are located in the capital city where consular functions also occur. Consulates may also exist in other cities. Consulates (and their chief diplomat, the consul) handle minor diplomatic issues such as issuing visas, aiding in trade relationships, and taking care of migrants, tourists, and expatriates. Under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations 1961, the premises of an Embassy are inviolable and “immune from search, requisition, attachment or execution,” but sovereignty of the embassy premises rests with the host country. Therefore whilst the embassy enjoys immunity it is not foreign soil as some think. Depending on the location and the home country the embassy buildings often can be grand and impressive. Some modern ones showcase the nation in a visual way.

With the exception of the UK embassy I took photos of those I came across, some were easily accessible being on the street, others were behind fences and walls. Some embassies are situated in large buildings within huge compounds, others is shared buildings or small offices. Sorry if I was missed yours.

United Kingdom Embassy

Other Embassies and Consulates.

Russian Consulate in Kirkenes

The Consulate has a reduced role now due to the partial closure of the nearby border crossing at Storskog. Russian tourists and local residents no longer can visit Kirkenes. This route is now to support Russian diplomats and a route to Svalbard.