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St. Mary's Church, Bergen

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St. Mary's Church, Bergen (Norway)

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St. Mary's Church (Mariakirken) in Bergen is the oldest surviving structure in the city and an impressive testament to Romanesque architecture. Its construction is estimated to have taken place between 1130 and 1180. The church is characterized by its two prominent west towers and is the only one of Bergen's formerly numerous Romanesque churches that has remained almost entirely in its original form. For centuries, it served as the main church for the powerful Hanseatic merchants residing in nearby Bryggen, which is why it was often referred to as the 'German Church.' Inside, the church houses one of Norway's most magnificent Baroque pulpits, created in 1676 by Dutch artists. Following an extensive renovation between 2010 and 2015, the building shines once more in its historical glory and remains a central venue for worship and cultural events in Bergen.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-2-20481214141062-1
Rain mm299218215155141154175205269276293319

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
St. Mary's Church in Bergen is the oldest surviving church in the city, dating from the 12th century. It can be visited during opening hours, with the interior usually accessible.
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Typical hours
Churches usually open during daytime, often with breaks for services. Entry is usually free, donations are welcome.
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Photography
Photography is usually allowed inside the church without flash. Please avoid tripods and respect the quiet.
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Time needed
A visit typically takes 20 to 30 minutes. For a closer look at the medieval frescoes, allow a bit more time.
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Combine with
Combine the church visit with a walk through the Bryggen quarter. The Hanseatic Museum is also just a few minutes' walk away.
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Getting there
The church is centrally located in Bergen, near the harbor. It is easily accessible on foot from the city center, with bus stops nearby.
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Insider tip
Visit the church on a weekday morning to avoid crowds. Look out for the ornate pulpit and the baptismal font.

Geography

Coordinates
60.39800, 5.32600

Facts

  • St. Mary's Church was built between 1130 and 1180.
  • It is the oldest existing building in the city of Bergen.
  • From 1408 to 1766, it served as the church for German Hanseatic merchants.
  • The Baroque pulpit was a gift from the Hanseatic league in 1676.
  • The church features a significant late Gothic winged altar.
  • The church was closed for renovation between 2010 and 2015.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Bryggens MuseumBryggens Museum<1 km · EExplore →
Port of BergenPort of Bergen3 km · WExplore →
AskøyAskøy8 km · WExplore →
MorvikMorvik9 km · NExplore →
Indre ArnaIndre Arna9 km · EExplore →
Knarrevik/StraumeKnarrevik/Straume12 km · WExplore →
HanøyHanøy14 km · WExplore →
MildeMilde17 km · SExplore →

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 St. Mary's Church, Bergen (10)

Galleri Steinkjelleren

An art gallery in Bergen, housed in an old stone cellar.

Carlos Apse Billedkunstner

Gallery of a visual artist in Bergen.

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Galleri Hetland

An art gallery in Bergen, named after artist Hetland.

Schøtstuene🏛 museum

Museum on Bryggen in Bergen, showing Hanseatic merchant life.

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Bryggen Hanseatic Wharf

UNESCO World Heritage site, historic Hanseatic wharf in Bergen.

St Mary's Church

One of Bergen's oldest churches, built in Romanesque style.

Escape Bryggen

An escape room game set in the historic Bryggen buildings.

Bryggens museum🏛 museum

Museum in Bergen with finds from the medieval harbour district.

Kopi av sideror til skip

Replica of side rudders from a Viking ship in Bergen.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the oldest building in Bergen?
St. Mary's Church (Mariakirken) is considered the city's oldest building.
Why is it called the 'Hanseatic Church'?
It was used for centuries by the German Hanseatic merchants.
Is there an entrance fee?
Yes, for tourists, the entrance fee is about 50 NOK.
What can you see inside?
The magnificent Baroque altar is particularly worth seeing.
Where is the church located?
Behind the Hanseatic quarter, Bryggen.
St. Mary's Church, Bergen: where is it located?
St. Mary's Church, Bergen is located in Norway.
St. Mary's Church, Bergen: what is there to see?
Highlights include Galleri Steinkjelleren, Carlos Apse Billedkunstner, Galleri Hetland.
St. Mary's Church, Bergen: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
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