Fantoft Stave Church
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Hidden out in a suburb of modern-day Bergen, Fantoft Church was originally built in Fortun in Sogn in 1150 and moved to Fantoft in 1883 to prevent demolition. The suburb has since been consumed by Bergen and is easy to reach by bus or on the city's light rail line. Sadly, the church that stands here today is not the original. In the summer of 1992 the original building was destroyed by fire, believed to have been started deliberately by Varg Vikernes, the Norwegian black metal artist who was jailed for arson of several churches including Oslo's Holmenkollen Chapel. In 1997, the church was rebuilt as close as possible to original specifications with planks, columns, and supports dovetailed or pegged together rather than with glue or nails. The stylised dragon heads are notable features of the exterior. This is a result of the conflict between traditional Norse mythology and the emerging Christianisation of Norway when the Church was originally built. It was believed that some of the old superstitions should be kept, such as the belief that dragons could keep evil spirits away. The interior that can seat just a handful of people is kept dimly lit and features a small altar and some interesting Norse-inspired carvings. Outside the church stands an original stone cross from Tjora, near Stavanger. Fantoft Stave Church is open from mid-May to mid-September and can be viewed free of charge from a viewing platform outside the perimeter fence. To get a closer look inside the perimeter fence and to look inside the church itself, you'll need to pay the 55kr entrance fee. Unusually for Norway, only cash or Norwegian debit cards are accepted, although holders of the Bergen Card (a multi-attraction tourist card which can be purchased at the Tourist Information Office) get free entry. The church is located atop a hill and can only be accessed by a short yet very steep walk from either the Fantoft or Paradis stops on the light rail line. Although it's well worth a visit, it's not an appropriate destination for those who can't walk easily.
SUHAS DubeySUHAS Dubey
20
Might be the most special church in Bergen, with viking, Christian and protestant elements. The church dates back to the 1150, but it was completely rebuilt in 1997 after it burned in 1992. Being a stave church, it's built entirely out of wood (same type of wood was used for the rebuild too), which makes it so simple and special. There are several beautiful Norse old carvings, such as dragons, which, by the old Norse mythology, used to keep evil spirits at bay. There's also a small cross on the inside roof of the building, showing the beginnings of Christianity. There are several nice stories behind this church too, one of them having to do with the small window on the left. Norway was deeply affected by the Leprosy disease for 500 years (check out the Leprosy museum in Bergen for more details), and the infected people were not allowed in the church, but they had a special place outside right next to this small window, where they could listen to the church service and pray. Ask for details there!;) Only 70 NOK for adults, 50 for students. The surrounding area is a nice forest, lovely to wander around too. Easy to get to Fantom station by metro, line 1, from the city centre, and then walk 10 minutes to the church area. Lovely authentic experience.
Ana SAna S
20
Fantoft Stave Church, or Fantoft Stavkirke, is a historic wooden church located in Bergen, Norway. It is a reconstructed medieval stave church known for its unique architectural style, characterized by intricate wooden carvings and a steep, multi-tiered roof. The original church was built in the 12th century but was moved to Fantoft in 1883. Unfortunately, it was destroyed by arson in 1992 and subsequently rebuilt to replicate the original structure. The church is a prime example of traditional Norwegian stave church architecture, featuring dark wooden walls, ornate carvings, and dragon-head details on the roof. The interior is simple but carries the historical essence of medieval Norwegian Christian architecture. It is both a tourist attraction and a cultural landmark, representing Norway's rich medieval heritage. Entrance fees for Fantoft Stave Church are approximately NOK 80 for adults, NOK 40 for children and students, and NOK 60 for seniors. There may be discounts available for larger groups. The church is usually open to visitors from May to September, with more limited hours during the off-season. It is recommended to check the official website or contact the venue directly for the most up-to-date information on opening hours and pricing.
RR
00
This Viking church originally dates back to 1150 and was built entirely of wood. Due to an arson attack, the original unfortunately burned down completely and was rebuilt according to available documents between 1993 and 1997. No iron nail, no metal clasp...fascinating. The design puts all ideas from movies like "The Lord of the Rings" or the series "Game of Thrones" in the shade. The church is comparatively small. Next to the church is a stone cross from the time of christianization of Norway, when there were no churches gb. Unfortunately, around the church at a relatively small distance was drawn a chain-link fence. This makes it difficult to take long shots. Admission for adults 75 NOK to see the interior. The church stands on a small mountain. For those traveling by cruiseships: it is easily accessible by public bus coming from Bergen. Unlike Google's suggestion, I would go 1 bus stop further and get off at the sign "Fantoft Stavkirke". From there it's just a walk up the hill. The access is not handicapped friendly.
No WayNo Way
00
Stave church in Fantoft located in Fana borough of Bergen and quite close to railway station Fantoft. Stave church in Fantoft is located on a hill and surrounded by old trees with mossy roots and rocks covered with lichen. First and original stave church was moved from Fortun to Fantoft in 1883. Unfortunately in 1992 was burnt by arson connected with early Norwegian black metal scene. The current form of a stave church in Fantoft we owe to 20th-century architect Egil O. Laastad who designed it and two architects J. L. Andersen and K. H. Irgens who conducted construction works. Its plan, interior and roofs topped with beautifully sculptured dragon-heads were based on decorations of various late Viking Age stave churches from Norway. In my opinion, stave church in Fantoft is worth visiting not only due to its architecture, history but also because of its beautiful location.
Klaudia KarpińskaKlaudia Karpińska
00
Fully reconstructed after the fire, this is a nice place to visit when traveling in the Bergen area by car. During high season a lot of bus tours, means free guide for you ;) I listed for a short while inside of the old dude telling very interesting stories of how this church was used in a old days. How people travel long time once a month for the sermon, of course they dressed up and socialize there as well. How women were sited to the north side from where the evil comes. How the only thee things left after the fire and they are : the wishing stone outside of the women entrance, the bowl for holly water and crucifix. People comment of price, common, once you decide to travel to Norway you need to be ready to spend money. Everything is expensive here, including the tickets into historic places. I will still pay to go I side though.
Ira HoyerIra Hoyer
00
Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIBasic Info
Address
Fantoftvegen 38, 5072 Bergen, Norway
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Phone
+47 55 28 07 10
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Website
fantoftstavkirke.no
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Fantoft Stave Church is a reconstructed stave church in the Fana borough of the city of Bergen, Norway.
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