Plizio Visual Lab
Oslo Cathedral
Oslo Cathedral, located in the bustling heart of the capital, serves as the main church for the Church of Norway’s Diocese of Oslo and is the traditional venue for royal and state events. Constructed between 1694 and 1697, it was built in the Baroque style to replace the city's previous cathedral, which had been destroyed by fire. The building has undergone several major renovations over the centuries, most notably in the 1850s to add Neogothic elements and again in the mid-20th century to restore its Baroque essence. One of its most striking features is the expansive ceiling murals painted by Hugo Lous Mohr between 1936 and 1950, which depict a series of vivid biblical narratives. The cathedral also houses a magnificent organ and an intricately carved pulpit and altar, both dating back to its original construction period. Surrounding the church are the historic Bazaar halls, built in the mid-19th century, which now host shops and cafes. As a focal point for national gatherings, weddings, and funerals, the cathedral holds a unique place in the Norwegian public consciousness.
- Location: Norway
- Top sights: Folketeatret · Oslokirken · Oslo Nye Centralteatret
- Nearby: Fjellstrand (15 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -6 | -5 | -2 | 4 | 10 | 14 | 16 | 15 | 11 | 5 | 0 | -5 |
| Rain mm | 78 | 60 | 56 | 61 | 92 | 96 | 112 | 122 | 96 | 104 | 94 | 78 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- The cathedral was officially consecrated and opened in 1697.
- The massive ceiling paintings by Hugo Lous Mohr were created between 1936 and 1950.
- The stained glass windows were designed by the artist Emanuel Vigeland.
- The cathedral's first pipe organ was installed as early as 1727.
- King Harald V and Queen Sonja were married in this cathedral in 1968.
- The Bazaar halls surrounding the church were originally used as a meat market.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Oslo Cathedral (10)
Midlertidig Minnesmerke
This temporary monument in Oslo commemorates a historical event.
Sentrum Scene
Sentrum Scene in Oslo is a venue for concerts and stage shows.
Paléhaven🌳 park
Paléhaven is a square in Oslo used as a public gathering space.
Børshagen🌳 park
Børshagen is a park in Oslo offering green space for recreation.
St Edmund's Church
St Edmund's Church in Oslo is a Church of England place of worship.
22. juli-senteret🏛 museum
The 22 July Centre in Oslo documents the 2011 attacks.
Margaretakyrkan
Margaretakyrkan is a place of worship in Oslo.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is there an entrance fee for Oslo Cathedral?
When was the cathedral built?
Are there concerts held there?
What is particularly worth seeing in the interior?
Is the cathedral always accessible to tourists?
Oslo Cathedral: where is it located?
Oslo Cathedral: what is there to see?
Oslo Cathedral: when is the best time to visit?
Oslo Cathedral: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
