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Heddal Stave Church

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Heddal Stave Church (Norway)

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Heddal Stave Church is the largest of its kind in Norway and stands as a magnificent example of medieval timber architecture. Located in the municipality of Notodden in Telemark County, the church was constructed during the first half of the 13th century, with dendrochronological evidence pointing to approximately 1242. The structure is a triple-nave stave church, characterized by its complex silhouette featuring three turrets and 12 internal load-bearing pillars known as staves. According to local folklore, the church was built in just three days by five farmers with the assistance of a mountain troll named Finn. Over the centuries, the building underwent various alterations, but a major restoration project between 1952 and 1954 successfully returned it to its original medieval state. Today, the church remains an active parish within the Church of Norway during the summer season and serves as a premier historical site, attracting visitors who come to admire its intricate wood carvings and ancient atmosphere.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-6-6-42712141393-2-5
Rain mm9772687610711213513511913311393

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Heddal Stave Church is the largest surviving stave church in Norway, built in the early 13th century. It can be visited during opening hours, with entry usually charged.
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Typical hours
Opening hours are seasonal, usually open daily from May to September. In the off-season, hours are limited, often only on weekends.
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Photography
Photography inside the stave church is usually allowed without flash. Exterior shots are of course always possible.
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Time needed
A visit typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes. For a guided tour of the church and surrounding grounds, allow one hour.
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Combine with
Combine the visit with a drive through the Telemark region. The nearby town of Notodden gives further attractions.
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Getting there
The stave church is located outside Notodden and is accessible by car. There is a parking lot nearby, from where you walk.
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Insider tip
Join a guided tour to learn more about the rich decoration and history. Combine the visit with the nearby Heddal Open Air Museum.

Geography

Coordinates
59.57400, 9.17600

Facts

  • The church was constructed around the year 1242 in the heart of Telemark County.
  • Measuring 25 meters in length, it is officially the largest stave church in Norway.
  • The exterior roof features three turrets and is adorned with intricate dragon carvings.
  • A total of 12 massive internal wooden staves support the complex triple-nave design.
  • A major restoration project from 1952 to 1954 restored its authentic medieval character.
  • The interior contains significant wall paintings that date back to the 17th century.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Notodden Industrial ClusterNotodden Industrial Cluster5 km · EExplore →
KongsbergKongsberg28 km · EExplore →
Kongsberg Silver MinesKongsberg Silver Mines29 km · EExplore →
Lunde ValleyLunde Valley34 km · SExplore →
GaustatoppenGaustatoppen43 km · NWExplore →
Skien ChurchSkien Church47 km · SEExplore →
RjukanRjukan48 km · NWExplore →
PorsgrunnPorsgrunn55 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Heddal Stave Church (4)

Heddal Bygdetun🏛 museum

An open-air museum near Heddal showcasing traditional Norwegian buildings.

Utsiktspunkt🌿 nature

A scenic observation point offering views of the landscape around Heddal.

Hollagruva🏺 historical

Hollagruva historic mine near Heddal stave church.

Heddal stavkyrkje📍 landmark

The largest stave church in Norway, built in the 13th century.

🕒 2023 Mar 5-2023 Jun 19,2023 Sep 1-2023 Sep 20 Mo-Su 10:00-16

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is Heddal the largest stave church in Norway?
Yes, it is the largest of the 28 remaining medieval stave churches in the country.
When was the church built?
The church dates from the early 13th century, around the year 1250.
Is the church still in use?
Yes, it still serves as a parish church for services, baptisms, and weddings.
Is there an entrance fee for viewing?
An entrance fee is charged for viewing the interior during the summer season.
What legend is associated with the construction?
According to legend, the church was built in just three days by a troll named Finn.
Heddal Stave Church: where is it located?
Heddal Stave Church is located in Norway.
Heddal Stave Church: what is there to see?
Highlights include Heddal Bygdetun, Utsiktspunkt, Hollagruva.
Heddal Stave Church: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Heddal Stave Church: why is it worth visiting?
Heddal Stave Church is the largest of its kind in Norway and stands as a magnificent example of medieval timber architecture.
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History & landmarks

Notodden — Heddal Stave Church (Norway)
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Home to Norway's largest stave church and the cradle of the modern fertilizer industry.