Phylicia StitzelSuppose you’re planning a trip to Norway and looking for a way to experience its deep-rooted history beyond the epic fjords and Northern Lights. In that case, there’s one spellbinding detour that belongs on your itinerary: Stave Churches. These striking wooden marvels are unlike anything else you’ll find in Europe. Haunting, beautiful, and rich with history, Norwegian Stave Churches are portals to the past and true national treasures. I made an entire trip to Bergen, Norway, to see these marvels for myself—and it did NOT disappoint!
But what exactly are they? Where can you find them? And why do they matter so much in understanding Norway’s cultural tapestry? Buckle up for this beginner-friendly guide to Norway’s Stave Churches—where old-world architecture meets Viking legend, Christian tradition, and pure craftsmanship.
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What Are Stave Churches?
The word “Stave” refers to the wooden post-and-beam construction technique used to build these churches. Think soaring timber pillars (the “staves”) and layered roofs that resemble something out of a fantasy novel. Most stave churches were built between the 12th and 14th centuries, during an important time when Norway was shifting from Norse paganism to Christianity.
These churches are entirely made of wood, crafted without nails using traditional joinery and impressive medieval engineering. Their architecture blends Norse mythology (dragons, serpents, intricate carvings) with Christian iconography, which makes them both spiritually and artistically fascinating. Picture a Christian basilica wearing a Viking helmet, and you’re getting close.
At one point, there were over 1,300 Stave Churches in Norway. Today, unfortunately, there are only 28 remain—each one a rare and remarkable survivor of time, climate, and history.
Why Do Norwegian Stave Churches Matter?
Outside of impressive architectural feats, these churches are far more than historical buildings; they are the beating heart of Norway’s medieval narrative. I would say that these should be on everyone’s travel bucket list:
- Cultural Fusion: They reflect the unique period when pagan traditions were incorporated into the new Christian order, making them valuable for understanding Norway’s religious evolution. Which, if you know your history, you know that this is a miracle in and of itself! e
- Architectural Mastery: The craftsmanship is mind-blowing, especially when you consider they were built with hand tools and no electricity.
- Rare Relics: These are among the oldest wooden buildings in the world still standing. Let that sink in for a second, then when you see the family ruins carved into the walls, your heart races with the thought of touching a piece of history.
- Spiritual Sites: Whether you’re religious or not, stepping inside a Stave Church can feel almost sacred—quiet, dark, and filled with centuries of whispered prayers.
Top Stave Churches to Visit in Norway
If you weren’t already planning your visit…are you now? To make life a little easier because I know how sometimes it can be hard to narrow down where to visit, so I made a list of some of the most iconic and accessible Stave Churches in Norway.
1. Borgund Stave Church
- Location: Lærdal, Western Norway
- Built: Around 1180
- Why It’s Special: Borgund is the best-preserved Stave Church in Norway and is often used as the poster child for Stave architecture. With dragon head carvings on its roof and a dramatic forested backdrop, it looks like something straight out of Middle Earth.
- Bonus Tip: There’s a visitor center and a scenic hiking trail nearby. Great for a half-day adventure, very easy to to access with kids (not strollers though).
2. Urnes Stave Church (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Location: Lustrafjord, Sogn og Fjordane
- Built: Around 1130
- Why It’s Special: This is the oldest Stave Church in Norway and recognized by UNESCO for its historical and architectural significance. The blend of Viking ornamentation and Christian motifs is absolutely jaw-dropping.
- Insider Tip: The views over the fjord are worth the trip alone not to mention visiting the oldest Stave Church in Norway.
3. Heddal Stave Church
- Location: Notodden, Telemark
- Built: Early 13th century
- Why It’s Special: Norway’s largest Stave Church, Heddal is majestic and feels like a wooden cathedral. You can explore both the interior and surrounding churchyard, which is dotted with ancient gravestones.
- Great For: Families, photographers, and architecture buffs.
4. Fantoft Stave Church
- Location: Bergen
- Built: Originally 1150; reconstructed after a 1992 fire
- Why It’s Special: Tucked into a forest just outside Bergen, Fantoft is mysterious and atmospheric. Though a reconstruction, it faithfully follows the traditional stave design. The surrounding woodland only adds to its fairytale ambiance.
- Perfect For: Day-trippers from Bergen and are short on time or don’t have your own means of transportation.
5. Hopperstad Stave Church
- Location: Vik, Sogn og Fjordane
- Built: Circa 1130
- Why It’s Special: One of the oldest surviving stave churches, Hopperstad boasts beautiful roof tiers and elaborate carvings. Located on the edge of a small village overlooking the fjord, it’s an atmospheric and peaceful stop on a fjordland tour.
- Don’t Miss: The impressive triple nave and the detailed portal carvings.
6. Gol Stave Church (Reconstructed)
- Location: Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, Oslo
- Built: Original from 1212, reconstructed in the 1880s
- Why It’s Special: Can’t leave Oslo? No problem. This reconstructed version of the Gol Stave Church gives travelers a glimpse into traditional stave design without leaving the capital. It’s part of a charming open-air museum that kids will love.
Tips for Visiting Stave Churches
Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning your Stave Church explorations:
- Opening Hours Vary: Many churches are only open during the summer months (May to September). Check ahead to avoid disappointment.
- Dress Respectfully: These are still religious sites, so dress modestly and behave respectfully.
- Take a Guided Tour: If available, opt for a guided tour. Local guides often share legends, symbolism, and quirky facts you won’t find on info boards.
- Photography: Interior lighting is often dim, so bring a camera that handles low light well.
- Combine with Scenic Drives: Most stave churches are located in stunning rural areas—perfect for a scenic Norwegian road trip.
A Stave Church Road Trip Itinerary
If you’re hitting the road through Norway, here’s a suggested route that connects several of the best Norwegian Stave Churches:
Oslo → Heddal → Borgund → Urnes → Fantoft → Bergen
- Day 1-2: Start in Oslo and visit the reconstructed Gol Stave Church at the museum.
- Day 3: Drive to Heddal in Notodden and explore the largest Stave Church.
- Day 4-5: Continue to Lærdal to see Borgund, and hike around the area.
- Day 6: Cross the fjord to reach Urnes. Consider staying overnight nearby.
- Day 7: Wrap up in Bergen with a visit to Fantoft before heading back or onward.
Final Thoughts
Norway’s Stave Churches are more than just wooden buildings—they are sacred time capsules that whisper tales of Vikings, saints, kings, and craftsmen. Whether you’re a history nerd (like me, guilty as charged), architecture lover, or curious traveler, visiting these churches gives you a deeper connection to Norway’s soul.
So, if you’re mapping out your Norwegian adventure, be sure to carve out time (pun intended) for these magical wooden wonders. Trust us: it’s not just a detour. It’s a doorway.
