Urnes Stave Church

Ornes, Norway

The stave churches constitute one of the most elaborate types of wood construction which are typical of northern Europe from the Neolithic period to the Middle Ages. Christianity was introduced into Norway during the reign of St Olav (1016-30). The churches were built on the classic basilical plan, but entirely of wood. The roof frames were lined with boards and the roof itself covered with shingles in accordance with construction techniques which were widespread in Scandinavian countries.

Among the roughly 1,300 medieval stave churches indexed, about 30 remain in Norway. Some of them are very large, such as Borgund, Hopperstad or Heddal churches, whereas others, such as Torpo or Underdal, are tiny. Urnes Church was selected to represent this outstanding series of wood buildings for a number of reasons, which make it an exceptional monument:Its antiquity: This church, which was rebuilt towards the mid-12th century, includes some elements originating from a stave church built about one century earlier whose location was revealed by the 1956-57 excavations.

The exemplary nature of its structure: This is characterized by the use of cylindrical columns with cubic capitals and semicircular arches, all of which use wood, the indigenous building material, to express the language of stone Romanesque architecture.

The outstanding quality of its sculpted monumental decor: On the outside, this includes strapwork panels and elements of Viking tradition taken from the preceding building (11th century). In the interior is an amazing series of 12th-century figurative capitals that constitute the origin of the Urnes Style production.

The wealth of liturgical objects of the medieval period: This includes Christ, the Virgin and St John as elements of a rood beam, a pulpit of sculpted wood, enamelled bronze candlesticks, the corona of light, etc.

Excellent conservation of a perfectly homogeneous ensemble: The embellishment of the 17th century (1601 and c. 1700) and the restorations of 1906-10 preserved its authenticity completely.

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Address

Fylkesveg 331 390, Ornes, Norway
See all sites in Ornes

Details

Founded: c. 1130
Category: Religious sites in Norway

More Information

en.wikipedia.org
whc.unesco.org
www.stavechurch.com

Rating

4.5/5 (based on Google user reviews)

Interesting Sites Nearby


Borgund Stave Church (38,3 km)
Vangen Church (44,2 km)
Undredal Stave Church (40,4 km)
Kaupanger Stave Church (13,5 km)
Dale Church (17,4 km)

User Reviews

Prashant Saxena (26 days ago)
Oldest Stave churches in Norway and beautifully maintained. Try to catch the short tour.
Martino Marisaldi (3 months ago)
Great place in a great location. Remember that the last ferry is at 6pm, or you'll have to take a long detour, though beautiful
Jon André Odén (3 months ago)
On the Unesco world heritage list, a unique church from ancient times. Guided tours with good knowledge. Local café with local foods. If you like history, this is a place i can recommend.
Christoffer Gullestrup (3 months ago)
Very fascinating to see such an old church. Interesting to see a mix of old and new viking art on the outside and inside of the church
Ankitt Patel (3 months ago)
An outstanding example of traditional Scandinavian wooden architecture, standing in the beautiful county of Sogn og Fjordane in western Norway.
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