Arctic Cathedral
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Young People, I Strongly Advise Against Visiting Norway and Finland!
Stella LunaStella Luna
162
Visiting the Arctic Cathedral in Tromso, Norway in October 2022 was a highlight of our trip. The iconic triangular-shaped cathedral, with its stunning stained glass windows and soaring arches, is a masterpiece of modern architecture. As we approached the cathedral, we were immediately struck by its unique design and the way it seemed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. The white concrete walls of the cathedral contrasted beautifully with the clear blue skies and the snow-capped mountains in the background. Inside, the cathedral was just as breathtaking as the exterior. The stained glass windows, which are made up of over 10,000 pieces of glass, filled the space with a kaleidoscope of colors, casting a warm glow throughout the interior. The altar, which is carved from Italian marble, was also a sight to behold, with its intricate details and graceful curves. During our visit, we were lucky enough to attend a concert in the cathedral, which showcased the incredible acoustics of the space. The music, combined with the stunning surroundings, created a truly magical experience that we will never forget. Overall, visiting the Arctic Cathedral in Tromso, Norway in October 2022 was a highlight of our trip. The stunning architecture, combined with the beautiful stained glass windows and incredible acoustics, made for a truly unforgettable experience. We highly recommend visiting the Arctic Cathedral to anyone traveling to Tromso.
Nicha M.Nicha M.
10
We were interested in seeing the inside of the Artic Cathedral having been looking at the outside from out hotel across the water. We did learn that Norwegians must walk a lot faster than I do. We were assured it was only a 15 minute walk from the town centre but it took s over 40 minutes. The views from the bridge on the way were wonderful especially given it was mid afternoon in January and therefore sunset. On reaching the Cathedral we found that it is difficult to get a good view of the outside from close to the cathedral. It sits at a major road junction and seems to be positioned so that the best views are from Tromsø town centre. Walking round it we ended up too close to really see the architecture. Once inside it was a very different story. The inside is modern with a lot of light wood but feeling was warm and welcoming. The real gems were the stained glass windows. These rose majestically and were positioned to make the most of the winter sun. The designs were quite abstract but still retained enough figures to hold the religiousness of the cathedral. Overall, i liked the cathedral but the best views are certainly from Tromsø town. Having said that the stained glass was excellent and as long as you are not expecting it to be a short walk the views from the bridge worth the effort of walking across it.
Graham PattersonGraham Patterson
00
Beautiful architecture yet very simple and intimate. I really liked not seeing Jesus on the cross in the conventional way it usually is in Christian churches. The shape is harmonized with the mural making it one of the most unique churches I've visited in the world. Ace told us the history of how the church was built, how hard it is to clean the windows due to it's shape. They had to hire professional mountain climbers to do that! About the mural and organ additions later on. The meaning of the numbers on the walls and a lot more interesting information. There's a changing display. Currently, it's beautiful local photography. Opening hours change on short notice sometimes (funerals / christening). I highly recommend calling ahead or checking their website. Usually, it's 13-17 (Wed 14-17). Parking is free behind the church. Bathrooms are available. The only unharmonized part for me is - I would much rather donate 70kr (probably more) than pay at the entrance. I always thought paying to go into church just depicts the whole concept of a house of God hence the 4 stars.
Rainbow ChaserRainbow Chaser
00
Never in my life had I been stopped at the door of a church to pay for entry (50 nok). I walked one hour thru a snowstorm hoping to take peaceful refuge in the church and offer prayer. I suppose the decline in numbers of the faithful have required a supplementary means of upkeep funds? But even St. Patricks Cathedral in NYC and the cathedral at Notre-Dame has non-discriminatory entry. Once inside, the minimalist nordic architectural style is something to admire. After sitting in prayer for a while I was told the church would be closing, at 6pm. I guess everything closes generally early here but was not expecting the church to close their doors so early. This was a Saturday. If you are in the area, definitely stop by but maybe come for a Sunday service when the focus is on the Lord and not a tourist attraction. It's a beautiful building, mostly from the outside. And as long as the 50 nok is going to keeping the building in working condition and keep the faith alive I can't complain too much.
Sean BogdanowiczSean Bogdanowicz
00
Tromsdalen Church, also known as Ishavskatedralen (The Arctic Cathedral) was dedicated on November 19, 1965. Architect Jan Inge Hovig succeeded in creating a masterpiece. The cathedral is a landmark visible from the Tromsø Sound, the Tromsø Bridge and when landing in Tromsø by aircraft. The 11 aluminium-coated concrete panels on each side of the roof provide the cathedral’s form. The main entrance on the western side is surrounded by a large glass façade with a pronounced cross. The fantastic glass mosaic on the eastern side was added in 1972. The glass mosaic is one of artist Victor Sparre’s most prominent works. It depicts God’s hand from which departs three rays of light: one through Jesus, one through a woman and one through a man. The glass work contains many symbols and generates considerable attention among our visitors.
Gabriel HuculeciGabriel Huculeci
00
Nearby Attractions Of Arctic Cathedral
Fjellheisen
Scandic Ishavshotel
Sherpatrappa
Eurospar
Tromsø Bridge
Arctic Whale Tours - Tromsø
Tromsø city view point
Porten til Ishavet
Arctic Cruise in Norway AS
Tromsø cruise port
Fjellheisen
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Scandic Ishavshotel
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Sherpatrappa
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Eurospar
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Nearby Restaurants Of Arctic Cathedral
Yonas Pizzeria
Maskinverkstedet
Bengts Bistro
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Maskinverkstedet
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Bengts Bistro
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Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIBasic Info
Address
Hans Nilsens veg 41, 9020 Tromsdalen, Norway
Map
Phone
+47 41 00 84 70
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Website
ishavskatedralen.no
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Reviews
Overview
4.2
(3.4K reviews)
Ratings & Description
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Description
Tromsdalen Church or the Arctic Cathedral is a parish church of the Church of Norway in Tromsø Municipality in Troms og Finnmark county, Norway. It is located in the Tromsdalen valley on the east side of Tromsø.
attractions: Fjellheisen, Scandic Ishavshotel, Sherpatrappa, Eurospar, Tromsø Bridge, Arctic Whale Tours - Tromsø, Tromsø city view point, Porten til Ishavet, Arctic Cruise in Norway AS, Tromsø cruise port, restaurants: Yonas Pizzeria, Maskinverkstedet, Bengts Bistro
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