Stavanger Cathedral
Rogaland
Stavanger Cathedral, located centrally in Stavanger, Rogaland, is Norway's oldest cathedral and the seat of the Bishop of Stavanger. Constructed around 1125 in a Romanesque long church style, it features a gray stone exterior and seats approximately 800 people. The cathedral was originally dedicated to Saint Swithun, reflecting its English ecclesiastical connections, and has continuously served as a religious center since the Middle Ages. After suffering heavy damage in a 1272 fire, it was rebuilt and expanded in the Gothic style, notably with two corner towers and a large east window. The cathedral's interior showcases Romanesque design elements such as round pillars with capitals depicting scenes from Ragnarok, and it contains significant furnishings like a baptismal font from circa 1300 and a bishop's chair from 1925. It has undergone various restorations, including major 20th-century efforts that restored much of its medieval character. Stavanger Cathedral also played a role in Norway's first national elections in 1814 as an election church. Today, it remains a vibrant religious and cultural landmark, blending centuries of architectural styles and historical significance within the cityscape of Stavanger.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to explore the cathedral during the summer months for pleasant weather and longer daylight hours. Booking guided tours or tickets in advance can enhance the experience, especially during peak tourist seasons. The cathedral offers insights into medieval Norwegian architecture and history, so allocating sufficient time to appreciate its art and structure is recommended. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Check the official website or contact the cathedral directly for up-to-date visiting hours and any special events.
Interesting facts
- •Stavanger Cathedral is the oldest standing cathedral building in Norway and has been in continuous use since the 1300s.
- •The cathedral served as an election church in 1814, hosting one of Norway's first national elections.
- •Its capitals depict scenes from Ragnarok, the Norse mythological 'End of Days'.
- •The baptismal font dates back to around 1300, highlighting its medieval heritage.
- •The cathedral's east façade features two towers with lancet windows and intricate sculptures between them.
History
Construction of Stavanger Cathedral likely began around 1100 under Bishop Reinald, possibly from Winchester, England, and was completed circa 1150.
The cathedral was initially the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Stavanger until the Protestant Reformation.
It suffered extensive damage in the 1272 city fire and was rebuilt in the Gothic style under Bishop Arne between 1276 and 1303.
In 1682, the episcopal seat moved to Kristiansand, but in 1925, the Diocese of Stavanger was re-established, and the cathedral regained its status.
Renovations in the 19th and 20th centuries restored much of its medieval appearance, reversing earlier plastering and alterations.
Place Guide
Nave and Capitals12th century
The central nave is elevated with round pillars whose capitals depict vivid scenes from Ragnarok, connecting the cathedral to Norse mythology through medieval stone carvings.
Baptismal Fontcirca 1300
A medieval baptismal font estimated to be from around 1300, used for baptisms throughout the cathedral's history.
East Façade and TowersLate 13th to early 14th century
The cathedral's east exterior features two corner towers with lancet windows and a large central window, adorned with sculptures including representations of Norwegian kings.
Bishop's Chair1925
The bishop's chair dates from 1925, symbolizing the re-establishment of the Diocese of Stavanger after nearly 250 years.
Contact
Phone: 51 84 04 00
