Stavanger Cathedral
Norway's oldest cathedral, a 900-year-old marvel blending Romanesque and Gothic styles, offering a glimpse into medieval history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer tour groups
Stavanger Cathedral
Best Time
Fewer tour groups
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Norway's oldest cathedral, a 900-year-old marvel blending Romanesque and Gothic styles, offering a glimpse into medieval history.
"Worth the small entry fee to see the wonderful interior of this 900-year-old cathedral."
Worth the Small Fee
Many find the modest entry fee to explore the interior is absolutely worth it for the history and beauty. :ticket:
Photo Opportunities
Capture the stunning architecture and stained glass. Respect services if you visit during one. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Architecture
Interior
Marvel at the blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, a testament to centuries of history and reconstruction.
Vivid Stained Glass
Windows
Admire the vibrant stained glass windows that cast colorful patterns across the ancient stone.
The Organ's Resonance
Organ Loft
Experience the powerful sound of the classical organ, a significant addition to the cathedral's acoustics.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Entry Fee & Photography
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Worth the Small Fee
Many find the modest entry fee to explore the interior is absolutely worth it for the history and beauty. :ticket:
Photo Opportunities
Capture the stunning architecture and stained glass. Respect services if you visit during one. :camerawithflash:
Central Location
Easily accessible in the city center, often visited alongside Breiavatnet lake and the old town. :world_map:
Historical Significance
Learn about its 900-year history as Norway's oldest continuously used cathedral. :scroll:
Tips
from all over the internet
Worth the Small Fee
Many find the modest entry fee to explore the interior is absolutely worth it for the history and beauty. :ticket:
Photo Opportunities
Capture the stunning architecture and stained glass. Respect services if you visit during one. :camerawithflash:
Central Location
Easily accessible in the city center, often visited alongside Breiavatnet lake and the old town. :world_map:
Historical Significance
Learn about its 900-year history as Norway's oldest continuously used cathedral. :scroll:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Stavanger Cathedral for its historical significance as Norway's oldest cathedral and its beautiful blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. The interior, though requiring a small fee, is considered well worth the visit for its atmosphere and details, including impressive stained glass and a notable organ.
"This beautiful cathedral is 900 years old and is the oldest cathedral in Norway. It is worth the small entry fee of around £5 to see the wonderful interior.
The style is Romanesque/gothic. The first organ was installed in 1622, then in 1992 a classical organ by the Reil brothers was installed requiring modifications to the roof structure. I did hear the organ as they were doing some rehearsals and it sounded amazing, hopefully I can go back when they have a service. I would highly recommend a visit."
Eddie Rogers
"A beautiful quiet park in the middle of town. Lovely, just lovely!"
Gordon Mitchell
"Stavanger Cathedral, also known as Stavanger domkirke, is a historic and architecturally significant church located in the city of Stavanger, Norway. It is the oldest cathedral in Norway that has been in continuous use since its construction.
The cathedral was built between 1100 and 1150, during the reign of King Sigurd Jorsalfarer (Sigurd the Crusader).
It is dedicated to Saint Swithun, an Anglo-Saxon bishop of Winchester.
The cathedral originally featured a Romanesque style, characterized by thick walls, small windows, and rounded arches. However, after a fire in 1272, it was rebuilt with Gothic elements, including pointed arches and larger windows.
Stavanger Cathedral stands as a testament to Norway's rich religious and architectural heritage, offering a glimpse into the country's medieval past."
Aleksandar Miljic
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Stavanger Cathedral is centrally located in Stavanger, making it easily accessible on foot from most parts of the city center. If you're arriving by public transport, buses stop frequently nearby. For those driving, parking can be found in nearby public garages.
Yes, the cathedral is situated near Breiavatnet lake and the charming old town (Gamla Stavanger), making it a convenient stop on a walking tour of the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a small entry fee to explore the interior of Stavanger Cathedral. Visitors generally find it to be a worthwhile expense for the historical and architectural experience.
Opening hours can vary, especially around holidays or for special events. It's best to check the official website or local listings before your visit. Some sources mention it can be temporarily closed for services or events.
Photography is usually permitted inside Stavanger Cathedral, but it's important to be respectful of worshippers and any ongoing services.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Stavanger Cathedral showcases a fascinating blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. It was originally built in a Romanesque style and later rebuilt with Gothic elements after a fire.
Stavanger Cathedral is approximately 900 years old, with construction dating back to the 12th century, making it the oldest cathedral in Norway still in continuous use.
Occasionally, Stavanger Cathedral hosts temporary art installations. For example, 'The Invisible Enemy Should Not Exist' by Michael Rakowitz was displayed outside the cathedral.
📸 📸 Photography
The area around Breiavatnet lake offers beautiful perspectives of the cathedral, especially with the water reflecting its facade. The surrounding city park also provides lovely framing opportunities.
Yes, the stained glass windows are a highlight and are generally fine to photograph, though be mindful of lighting conditions inside the cathedral for the best results.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Millennium of History
The cathedral is dedicated to Saint Swithun, an Anglo-Saxon bishop of Winchester, reflecting early medieval connections. The installation of its first organ in 1622 and a later classical organ in 1992, which necessitated roof modifications, further illustrate its evolving history and adaptation.
Architectural Fusion
This blend of Romanesque solidity and Gothic elegance creates a visually striking interior. The interplay of light through the stained glass windows, a feature often enhanced by Gothic design, adds to the serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere. The cathedral's evolution is a testament to its resilience and the changing architectural tastes and techniques over centuries.
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