The Smestad ponds are man made ponds which were dug out during the late 1800s by Carl Smestad to provide the bourgeoisie of Oslo with ice for refrigeration throughout much of the year.
Smestad's ponds, built in the late 19th century, served as a means for Oslo's upper class to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the year by providing them with ice, which was essential for refrigeration purposes.