Churches in Norway

'Bergstadens Ziir' - though best known as Røros church, was built when Røros copperworks was in its heyday. The church was completed in 1784 and is certainly a sight to behold. The Norwegian Rigsantikvar has named the church as one of the 10 most prominent churches in Norway. It's also one of the country's largest, with room for 1,600 visitors.

The church may be closed to the public during services, weddings, baptisms, etc.

The church is the first garrison church in the country. Garrison means that it was used by the military for various purposes. This is because in 1750 Stavern became a naval dockyard for the Danish-Norwegian navy under the name Fredriksværn Værft, named after Frederik V. The church was also used as a hospital in wartime. The ninety-degree benches, referred to in history books as the "pine benches", could be knocked down in the church and used as sick beds.

Stavanger's distinguished cathedral is one of the best preserved buildings from the Middle Ages. Located in a northern part of the idyllic Breiavatnet in Stavanger, the church certainly deserves a visit.

The cathedral hosts a number of concerts and exciting events, so be sure to check the church's calendar of activities to see if there's anything exciting going on right now.

Ringeby Stavkirke is one of 28 preserved stave churches in Norway and one of the largest. It dates back to the Middle Ages and there are many local stories about this church. Among other things, there is a story about the church bell that was supposed to be moved to Oslo, but ended up at the bottom of Lake Mjøsa.

There is a church in Balestrand, a copy of a stave church from 1897. It is under the authority of the Bishop of Gibraltar and belongs to the Church of England, even today. The story goes that the church was erected in memory of the British mountaineer Margaret Sophia Green, who took the surname Kvikne when she married a fellow from Balestrand. Britten never settled in the Lutheran church and probably longed for home. Her last wish was to see an Anglican church built, and it stands to this day. The church bears witness to the long history of visitors to Balestrand. In other words, it was not just Emperor Wilhelm II who found a place of belonging here at Sognefjorden.

The tour will not be complete if you do not visit Nidarosdomen, since the trip goes to Trondheim. Nidarosdom was built in the 12th century and is considered one of the most important churches in Norwegian history. It is also where Olav the Holy is said to have been buried and, as we know, he played a central role in Christian Norway, making the magnificent Nidarosdomen a popular destination for pilgrims in Europe.

It was also here that Princess Märtha Louise got her Ari in 2002, King Harald and Queen Sonja were also crowned here in 1991. The St. Olavs Days are a series of musical events held around Olsok every year, so remember to check your calendar, maybe your holiday will coincide with this extra experience.

During a wonderful holiday near Etnesjøen, you have the opportunity to visit some of the region's most charming churches. Grindheim Church is a beautiful white wooden church, erected back in 1728, and located on the eastern outskirts of the village. It is believed that there was church activity here even earlier - as far back as the 1300s - and in fact the area is thought to house the largest pre-Christian burial ground in the whole region, with more than 200 burial mounds. Another beautiful wooden church nearby that is certainly worth a visit is the long church of Stødle, which lies further west, closer to the centre of Etnesjøen.

Selja Abbey, located on the serene island of Selja, Norway, is a significant historical and spiritual site. Founded in the early 12th century, it was the first Benedictine monastery in Norway and played a key role in the country's Christianization. The abbey's ruins, surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the island, offer a unique glimpse into medieval monastic life.

Visitors can explore the remains of the abbey, including the ancient church and monastic buildings, set against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. Selja Abbey is also associated with Saint Sunniva, Norway's only female saint, whose legendary story adds to the site's mystical appeal.

Accessible by boat, the abbey is a peaceful destination for those interested in history, culture, and nature. A visit to Selja Abbey provides an enriching experience, combining Norway's religious heritage with its breathtaking landscapes.

Rømskog Church is a picturesque parish church located in Aurskog-Høland municipality, Akershus county. It belongs to the Church of Norway and is part of the Østre Borgesyssel deanery within the Borg diocese. Surrounded by serene nature and rolling landscapes, the church is an important cultural and historical landmark in the region.

The origins of Rømskog Church date back to the medieval period. A stave church originally stood on this site, first recorded in historical sources in 1369, though it was likely constructed around the mid-1200s. This wooden church served the local community for centuries until 1799, when the nave was replaced with a timbered structure, marking the beginning of the modern church building.