Fantoft Stave Church

Stave churches—a fabulous example of Medieval architecture—used to be common throughout Norway. They’re majestic, entirely wooden cathedrals, with typically three floors or more. Step inside one and it’s easy to see how these places must’ve felt divine to humans some 900 years ago.

Today, only 28 of Scandinavia’s original 1,000 stave churches remain. Fantoft Stave Church is open for interior exploration in summer, while its exterior serves as a popular photo op and sightseeing stop during the rest of the year.

• During summer, tickets are required to enter Fantoft Stave Church—they’re available at the door.

• Those with the Bergen Card get free admission.

• Bathrooms are located on the top floor.

• The church is not accessible for either strollers or wheelchairs.

Fantoft Stave Church is about a 15-minute drive from downtown Bergen and there is a small on-site parking lot. Alternatively, the Bergen Light Rail Line 1 runs regularly and drops off riders a short walk from Fantoft: Signs listing “stave church” line the way. Some sightseeing tours include a stop at Fantoft.

From late spring to early fall—roughly May 15th to September 30th—Fantoft Stave Church is typically open every day of the week. During that window, hours tend to be roughly from 10am to 6:30pm. The church is closed the rest of the year, though visitors are welcome to explore the exterior and grounds.

While Fantoft Stave Church was burned down and reconstructed in the 1990s—it was felled by arsonists from Norway’s Black Metal movement—two objects from the original church were saved. Look for a wish stone placed in the side wall (guides can point it out) and the cross at the altar, both dating to the 12th century.