Borgund Stave Church

Introduction

Borgund Stave Church is an essential destination in Norway, providing a remarkable insight into the country’s medieval heritage. Situated in the charming village of Borgund, near Lærdal, this 12th-century stave church stands as one of the most well-preserved examples of its kind in Norway. Its stunning architecture and historical importance make it a captivating site to visit.

History

Constructed around 1180 and dedicated to the Apostle Andrew, Borgund Stave Church has maintained many of its original features, showcasing exceptional preservation. In the mid-1800s, as the local population grew, a new church was built, and the Society for the Preservation of Ancient Norwegian Monuments took charge of the stave church, ensuring its conservation for future generations.

How to Get There

Borgund Stave Church is conveniently reachable by car via the European Highway E16. The drive from Oslo takes roughly 4 hours and 15 minutes, while from Bergen, it takes about 3 hours and 25 minutes. Public buses are also available from nearby towns such as Sogndal, Laerdal, and Flåm. During the summer months, guided bus tours from Flåm are highly recommended.

Attractions

• Borgund Stave Church: The main highlight is the church itself, featuring a seven-tiered roof adorned with intricate dragon head carvings and galleries. The interior showcases 14 pillars (staver) and provides insights into the church’s history before and after the Reformation.
• Vindhellavegen: This scenic hiking trail, located directly behind the stave church, offers stunning views. It is a 2-kilometer-long section of the King’s Road, a trade route used for over 1000 years.
• Visitor Centre: The visitor centre features exhibitions on the history of stave churches in Norway and Viking Age artifacts. It also includes a café and a souvenir shop.
• The King’s Road: Commissioned by the King in the 1790s, this historic road stretches from Oslo to Lærdal. The Vindhellavegen section is particularly picturesque and worth exploring.
• Borgund New Church: Although not open to the public during visits, this red church located next to the original black wooden stave church adds to the area’s historical significance.

Ticket Information

• Adults: 110 NOK ($10.30 USD)
• Children and Students: 80 NOK ($7.50 USD)
• Family: 250 NOK ($23.40 USD)
• Groups of Minimum 10 People: 100 NOK per person ($9.35 USD)
• Pensioners: 100 NOK ($9.35 USD)

All group visits must be arranged in advance.

Tips for Visiting

• Guided Tours: Consider timing your visit with a guided tour to fully appreciate the intricate details of the church.
• Visitor Centre: Allocate some time to explore the visitor centre and learn about the history of stave churches and Viking Age artifacts.
• Parking: Use the visitor centre parking and avoid parking next to the stave church.
• Accessibility: The path to the stave church is suitable for most visitors with normal physical condition, but it is not wheelchair accessible.
• Combining Activities: Enhance your visit by walking along Vindhellavegen and The King’s Road for a more comprehensive experience.
• Weather: Check the weather forecast before your visit and plan accordingly to maximize your experience.

Borgund Stave Church is a unique and intriguing destination that showcases Norway’s rich cultural heritage. With its well-preserved architecture and historical significance, it is an essential stop for anyone traveling to Norway.