Believed to be the oldest Norwegian stave church still standing, the Norse-inspired Urnes Stave Church deep in Norway’s fjord country is a highlight of any Scandinavian road trip.
There’s more familiar Christian imagery inside the church. A group of figures depicting Jesus suffering on the cross in front of Mary and John dates from the 12th century. The church is open to visitors most days during the summer season, which runs May thru September.To a tourist, life in the Norwegian fjords must seem relaxing. But the reality of life for people living on the banks of the Lustrafjord has always been defined by hard work.
Interest in Urnes Stave Church has increased greatly since it was added to the UNESCO World Heritage ListHow to get to Urnes Stave Church To reach the church from the regional capital Sogndal, take route 55 north of the town. It should take less than an hour to make the 14 mile drive, which includes a short car ferry crossing. Check the timetable of theWhen visiting Ornes, make sure to leave time to take at least a short drive up the coastal road of the Lustrafjord.