- Address: Haakon VIIs gate 2, 4600 Stavanger, Norway
- Phone: +47 51 84 04 00
- Website: stavangerdomkirke.no
- Architectural style: Gothic architecture
- Confession: Evangelical Lutheran Church of Norway
- Foundation date: about 1100.
- Founder: Sigurd I Crusader
- Working hours: 11.00-16.00 (Mon and Fri - Weekends)
Despite the remoteness and harsh climate, Norway every year only gaining popularity among foreign tourists who dream of enjoying the mysterious scenery of glaciers and waterfalls, see the fabulous northern lights and serene mountains. The charming country attracts visitors from all over the world not only with amazing natural treasures, but also with a unique culture, the exploration of which will be a real adventure. Among the main architectural attractions of Norway , the Cathedral of Stavanger, an ancient church, one of the most ancient on the territory of the state, deserves special attention.
Historical background
The Cathedral of Stavanger (alternative name - Stavanger Cathedral) is one of the three oldest churches in Norway. It was built, according to researchers, in the early XII century. on the site of an older church in the central part of one of the largest cities in the country today, in honor of which it was subsequently named. The founder of the church is Sigurd I Crusader - the ruler of Norway in 1103-1130.
An interesting fact: it is for sure not known what appeared before - a city or a temple - however most scientists are inclined to think that initially the Stavanger Cathedral was built in a small fishing village that received the city status only 20 years later, in 1125.
Architectural features of the temple
Stavanger Cathedral is a three-nave basilica, executed in the traditional Norman style, the characteristic features of which are large columns and narrow windows that do not allow much light.
At the beginning of the XIII century. Stavanger almost completely burned out in the fire, and the main shrine of the city was badly damaged. Over time, the temple was partially restored, and on the eastern side of the facade two Gothic-style towers were completed, which not only fit perfectly into the general view of the cathedral, but also helped to reflect the architecture of that time.
A great interest for tourists is the interior of the Cathedral of Stavanger. After the fire, the temple was repeatedly refurbished several times: in 1650 Andrew Smith built a pulpit, and in 1957 old glasses were replaced with new ones (stained-glass windows) - the work of Victor Sparr. The main relic of the church is the relics of the patron saint of the church - Saint Svitina.
Nearby there is a lake, near which are cozy benches, where you can relax and be alone with your thoughts.
How to get to the temple?
Getting to the Cathedral of Stavanger is quite simple:
- on foot during a walk in the historic center of the city;
- on a personal or rented car ;
- by public transport , in particular by bus number 12 - you should leave at the Haukeligata stop, which is 2 blocks from the entrance to the temple.