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Stavanger Cathedral

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Stavanger Cathedral is the oldest cathedral in Norway and an outstanding monument of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Construction began around 1125 under Bishop Reinald, shortly after Stavanger was designated a bishopric. The original nave was built in a heavy Romanesque style with massive round pillars. Following a devastating city fire in 1272, the choir was rebuilt in the High Gothic style, adorned with delicate stonework and tall pointed-arch windows. The cathedral is dedicated to St. Swithun of Winchester and has remained largely preserved in its medieval structure over the centuries. Inside, the 17th-century Baroque pulpit, a masterpiece by woodcarver Andrew Lawrenceson Smith, is particularly impressive. Today, the cathedral is the centerpiece of historic Stavanger and a symbol of the region's long religious tradition.

Location: Norway
Top sights: Mariakirken · Stavanger domkirke · Bispekapellet
Nearby: Hommersåk (8 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	2	2	3	6	9	13	15	15	13	9	6	4
Rain mm	205	144	124	94	89	91	114	150	170	189	199	217

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Stavanger Cathedral is the oldest surviving cathedral in Norway, with construction starting around 1125. It can be visited during opening hours, with the interior usually accessible.

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Typical hours

Cathedrals typically open during daytime, often closed during services. Usually entry is free, donations for upkeep are welcome.

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Photography

Photography inside is usually allowed without flash. Please avoid tripods and respect the reverent atmosphere.

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Time needed

A visit typically takes 20 to 30 minutes. For a detailed look at the stained glass and altar, plan about 30 minutes.

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Combine with

Combine the visit with a walk through Stavanger's old town. The Norwegian Petroleum Museum is also nearby.

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Getting there

The cathedral is centrally located in Stavanger, near the harbor. It is easily accessible on foot, with bus stops nearby.

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Insider tip

Visit the cathedral early in the morning to enjoy the quiet. Notice the artistic details in Romanesque style.

Geography

Coordinates

58.97000, 5.73300

Facts

Construction of the cathedral officially began in the year 1125.
The church is dedicated to St. Swithun of Winchester.
The Gothic choir was completed after the fire of 1272.
The Baroque pulpit dates back to the year 1658.
The cathedral is the only Norwegian cathedral used continuously since the Middle Ages.
Bishop Reinald likely came from Winchester in England.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Stavanger<1 km · SExplore →

Mariero4 km · SExplore →

Hommersåk8 km · SEExplore →

Randaberg8 km · NWExplore →

Sola11 km · SWExplore →

Sandnes13 km · SExplore →

Rogaland Coastline14 km · WExplore →

Østhusvik14 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Stavanger Cathedral (10)

Mariakirken

Ruins of a church in Stavanger, Norway, dating from the Middle Ages.

Stavanger domkirke

Church in Stavanger, Norway, the city's 12th-century cathedral.

🌐 kirken.stavanger.no

Bispekapellet

Building in Stavanger, Rogaland, Norway, the bishop's chapel.

🌐 kirken.stavanger.no

Byparken🌳 park

Park in Stavanger, Norway, a green space in the city center.

Musikkpaviljongen

Music pavilion in Stavanger, a venue for outdoor concerts.

Sølvberget Stavanger Library and Culture Center

Culture house and library in Stavanger, Norway, hosting events.

St. Peter's Church

Church building in Stavanger, Rogaland, Norway, a Catholic church.

Sigval Bergesen

Monument in Stavanger, commemorating shipowner Sigval Bergesen.

WWII monument

Monument in Stavanger, commemorating the Second World War.

Valbergtårnet

Viewpoint tower in Stavanger, offering a panorama of the city.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How old is Stavanger Cathedral?

Construction began around 1125; it is the oldest cathedral in Norway.

In what style was it built?

Originally Romanesque, later expanded in Gothic style.

Can you visit the interior for free?

A small maintenance fee of about 50 NOK is often charged.

When is the cathedral closed?

It is closed to tourists on Mondays and during religious ceremonies.

Where exactly is the cathedral located?

Right in the city center, next to the city park Byparken.

Stavanger Cathedral: where is it located?

Stavanger Cathedral is located in Norway.

Stavanger Cathedral: what is there to see?

Highlights include Mariakirken, Stavanger domkirke, Bispekapellet.

Stavanger Cathedral: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Stavanger Cathedral: why is it worth visiting?

Stavanger Cathedral is the oldest cathedral in Norway and an outstanding monument of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.

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