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St. Olav's Church

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St. Olav's Church (Norway)

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St. Olav's Church in Avaldsnes on the island of Karmøy is one of Norway's most historically significant stone churches. It was built around the year 1250 by King Håkon Håkonsson as a royal chapel and dedicated to St. Olav. The church was part of a royal estate that played a key role in the country's medieval history. The building is constructed in the Gothic style but also exhibits Romanesque influences. Particularly striking is 'Mary's Needle,' a tall standing stone by the north wall that almost touches the masonry. Legends state that Judgment Day will arrive when the stone touches the church, which is why monks allegedly secretly filed it down to prevent contact. Today, the church is an important destination for pilgrims and history enthusiasts exploring the historical King's Road.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-6-5-24101416151150-5
Rain mm786056619296112122961049478

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
St. Olav's Church in Oslo is an important Catholic church. It can be visited during opening hours, with the interior usually accessible except during Mass.
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Typical hours
Churches typically open during daytime, often closed during services. Usually entry is free, donations are welcome.
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Photography
Photography is usually allowed inside the church without flash. Please respect the liturgical solemnity.
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Time needed
A visit typically takes 15 to 30 minutes. If you want to admire the architecture and artworks, plan about 20 minutes.
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Combine with
Combine the visit with other Oslo attractions like Akershus Fortress or the Royal Palace. The city center is within walking distance.
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Getting there
The church is centrally located in Oslo, near the main train station. It is well accessible by public transport, parking is limited.
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Insider tip
Visit the church outside service times for a quiet visit. Check in advance for any special events.

Geography

Coordinates
59.91700, 10.74300

Facts

  • The church was completed around the year 1250.
  • The standing stone 'Mary's Needle' is approximately 7.2 meters high.
  • Avaldsnes was Norway's first royal seat under Harald Fairhair.
  • The church underwent extensive restoration in the 19th century.
  • In the Middle Ages, the building served as an important landmark for sailors.
  • St. Olav's Church is part of the Nordsweg cultural project.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

National GalleryNational Gallery<1 km · WExplore →
Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern ArtAstrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art2 km · SWExplore →
Oslo City MuseumOslo City Museum2 km · WExplore →
Kon-Tiki MuseumKon-Tiki Museum3 km · SWExplore →
Norwegian Museum of Science and TechnologyNorwegian Museum of Science and Technology6 km · NExplore →
NordmarkaNordmarka15 km · NExplore →
FjellstrandFjellstrand15 km · SWExplore →
LommedalenLommedalen16 km · WExplore →

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. Olav's Church (10)

Kommandør T.I. Øgrims plass🌳 park

Square in Norway, named after a commander.

22. juli-senteret🏛 museum

Museum in Oslo, commemorating the 22 July 2011 attacks.

🕒 Th-Su 11:00-16:00♿🆓

Schandorffs plass🌳 park

Square in Norway, a public space in Oslo.

Oslo Reptilpark

Reptile zoo in Oslo, featuring lizards, snakes, and spiders.

🕒 Tu-Su 10:00-18:00💶

Trefoldighetskirken

Church in Oslo, Norway, a Lutheran place of worship.

Sankt Olav domkirke

Cathedral in Oslo, Norway, seat of the Catholic bishop.

Midlertidig Minnesmerke

Temporary monument in Oslo, commemorating a historical event.

Margaretakyrkan

Church in Oslo, place of worship for the Swedish congregation.

Edderkoppen scene

Theatre stage in Oslo, offering plays and musical performances.

Oslo Nye Centralteatret

Theatre in Oslo, Norway, known for its diverse productions.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Who built the church?
King Håkon Håkonsson had it built around the year 1250.
Where is the church located?
It is located in Avaldsnes on the island of Karmøy.
What is 'Mary's Needle'?
It is a rune stone that leans dangerously close to the church wall.
Can you get married there?
Yes, it is a very popular church for weddings.
Is there a visitor center nearby?
Yes, the Nordvegen History Centre is located right next door.
St. Olav's Church: where is it located?
St. Olav's Church is located in Norway.
St. Olav's Church: what is there to see?
Highlights include Kommandør T.I. Øgrims plass, 22. juli-senteret, Schandorffs plass.
St. Olav's Church: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
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