The Northern Lights Cathedral
Troms og Finnmark
The Northern Lights Cathedral, located in the heart of Alta, Norway, is a striking modern parish church completed in 2013. Designed by LINK arkitektur in collaboration with Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects, the church features a distinctive circular layout with a large spiral belfry clad in titanium sheets, symbolizing the swirling northern lights. It seats approximately 350 people and serves as the main church for the Alta parish and deanery. The interior is adorned with notable artworks by Danish artist Peter Brandes, including a prominent bronze and gold-plated figure of the victorious Christ, a marble baptismal font with 32 blue hues, and twelve golden reliefs representing the disciples. The church also houses a custom-designed pipe organ inspired by the northern lights, with 29 voices and 1802 pipes, gifted by Alta Kraftlag. Beyond its religious function, the cathedral includes office spaces, educational rooms, and a northern lights attraction called BorealisAlta, making it a cultural and community hub. Consecrated in 2013 with attendance by Crown Princess Mette Marit, it replaces the historic Alta Church as the parish's main church, symbolizing a blend of tradition and contemporary design inspired by the Arctic environment.
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Astuce: Visit during the winter months to experience the cathedral alongside the natural northern lights phenomenon. Booking guided tours or attending special services can enrich your visit. Tickets for the northern lights attraction BorealisAlta are recommended to purchase in advance. The church offers accessibility and facilities for visitors, including restrooms and a community hall.
Faits intéressants
- •The cathedral's exterior is clad in titanium sheets, chosen for their durability and unique appearance that reflects the northern lights.
- •The large bronze and gold-plated Christ figure inside is a centerpiece created by artist Peter Brandes, symbolizing victory and spiritual light.
- •The church organ has 29 voices and 1802 pipes, designed to visually mimic the northern lights and is a gift from the local power company Alta Kraftlag.
- •The baptismal font is made of marble stucco with 32 different shades of blue, illuminated by light to create a golden drop effect during baptisms.
- •Twelve golden reliefs on the tower base represent the twelve disciples of Jesus, crafted by Peter Brandes.
- •The church includes a northern lights attraction called BorealisAlta, enhancing the visitor experience beyond traditional worship.
Histoire
The Northern Lights Cathedral was constructed between 2009 and 2013 following an architectural competition held in 2001.
It was designed to replace the historic Alta Church as the main church for the parish and deanery.
The church was consecrated on February 10, 2013, by Bishop Per Oskar Kjølaas, with Crown Princess Mette Marit in attendance.
Its modern design reflects a contemporary interpretation of ecclesiastical architecture, incorporating local cultural elements such as the northern lights.
Over time, it has become a significant landmark in Alta, blending spiritual, cultural, and architectural significance.
Guide du lieu
Main Church Hall2013
The central worship area featuring a circular design with seating for 350, highlighted by the bronze and gold-plated victorious Christ statue facing upwards towards the light.
Belfry Spiral2013
A large spiral tower clad in titanium sheets, symbolizing the swirling northern lights and serving as a prominent architectural feature.
Pipe Organ2013
A custom-built organ with 29 voices and 1802 pipes designed to visually resemble the northern lights, gifted by Alta Kraftlag.
Baptismal Font2013
Made from marble stucco with 32 different blue hues and a glass plate illuminated from below, creating a golden drop effect during baptism ceremonies.
Twelve Golden Reliefs2013
Located at the base of the tower, these reliefs depict the twelve disciples of Jesus, crafted in gold by Peter Brandes.
Contact
Téléphone: 40 19 50 00
