Fantoft Stave Church — Attraction in Bergen

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...

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...

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...