Heddal Stave Church

Heddal Stave Church

Heddal Stave Church is Norway’s largest stave church. It is not only a masterpiece of medieval architecture but also a church still in use by the local parish in Notodden, Telemark. Ancient Germanic runes are carved into the walls of the outer passageway, indicating that this church was built in honor of the Virgin Mary.

Heddal Stave Church is a three-story wooden structure built in the early 13th century. After years of wear and gradual decline, it was restored between 1849 and 1851. However, due to the limited skills of the original builders, a more thorough restoration was carried out again in the 1950s. Inside Heddal Stave Church, visitors can see exquisitely carved wooden chairs dating back about 1,200 years and murals from as early as 1668. On the western wall of the basement, murals created approximately 1,300 years ago are still preserved.

Backed by a forested mountainside and fronted by a stone wall, Heddal Stave Church is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. The entire church is constructed of wood, with steeply pitched roofs on each level and pointed spires, giving it the appearance of an ancient Eastern temple—simple and elegant.

Heddal Stave Church

Must-visit reason: Norway’s largest stave church

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Norway[Norway]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Telemark County [Telemark County]

City where the attraction is located: Notodden [Notodden]