Øvre foss is one of the most striking waterfalls in Akerselva, with a drop of 8 metres. The waterfall has historical significance, as it was previously used for power production for the Christiania Seildugsfabrik, which was established in 1856. The factory was one of the largest buildings in Oslo and employed up to 920 employees in 1908.
Business at the factory ceased in 1960, and the premises have since been converted into the Oslo Academy of Arts. The area around the waterfall covers 40,000 square meters and currently houses 500 students and 200 employees. Øvre foss and the surrounding area represent both a natural and cultural heritage in Oslo.