Hamar Cathedral was erected as a result of Hamar achieving city status in 1849 and re-emerged as an independent diocese two years later. Noting rapid growth and the need for a diocese to cover areas of eastern Norway, the Church of Norway established the seat for the newly formed diocese of Norway in Hamar in 1864. The architect for the cathedral was Heinrich Ernst Schirmer, the local general contractor was Herman Frang. The cathedral was consecrated for services on 15 December 1866. The exterior was built in simple, nearly austere German Romanesque style and is largely unchanged since its construction.
In the 1920s, several changes were made to the interior. In 1950, bishop Kristian Schjelderup called for a significant renovation of the interior. Arnstein Arneberg was commissioned as architect, and his design called for nearly completely gutting the interior. All that remain from the original interior are the supporting structure for the organ loft, only the baptismal font and two silver candlestick holders. The new interior was opened on May 9, 1954.
The interior is characterized by an elevated nave, inspired by the basilica structure. The windows are decorated with fabric-like paintings, possibly based on medieval tapestries. The central feature of the interior is the altar, which is possibly the most unusual feature of the cathedral. Henrik Sørensen's depiction of the resurrected Jesus Christ was inspired by a Nordic archetype. On the side panels Sørensen depicted the anxious mother and Hans Nielsen Hauge's awakening. The ceiling was painted by Arve Hagen. The pulpit and the bar in front of the sanctuary were carved by Anthon Røvik. The pulpit includes a depiction of Francis of Assisi.
References:The Château de Foix dominates the town of Foix. An important tourist site, it is known as a centre of the Cathars. Built on an older 7th-century fortification, the castle is known from 987. In 1002, it was mentioned in the will of Roger I, Count of Carcassonne, who bequeathed the fortress to his youngest child, Bernard. In effect, the family ruling over the region were installed here which allowed them to control access to the upper Ariège valley and to keep surveillance from this strategic point over the lower land, protected behind impregnable walls.
In 1034, the castle became capital of the County of Foix and played a decisive role in medieval military history. During the two following centuries, the castle was home to Counts with shining personalities who became the soul of the Occitan resistance during the crusade against the Albigensians.