The architecture of the stave church Borgund is built on a basilica plan, with reduced side aisles, and an added chancel and apse. The medieval belfry close by is the only one of its kind left in Norway. The eye-catching exterior architecture is known throughout the world.

How was the Borgund stave church built?

The church was built sometime between 1180 and 1250 AD with later additions and restorations. Its walls are formed by vertical wooden posts, or staves, hence the name “stave church.” The four corner posts are connected to one another by ground sills, resting on a stone foundation.

What are some characteristics of stave churches?

The best-known stave churches are characterized by a roof with multiple tiers of triangular frames that gradually diminish in size. Many also have portals embellished with fine woodcarving and wall paintings that feature pagan and Christian motifs.

What is the stave church in borgund Norway an example of?

medieval architecture
Borgund Stave Church is a unique example of impressive medieval architecture and is a distinctive landmark on the tourist route to Lærdal. Built around 1180 and is dedicated to the Apostle Andrew. The church is exceptionally well preserved and is one of the most distinctive stave churches in Norway.

Do stave churches use nails?

Stave churches are characterized by the “staves,” or thick wooden posts, that hold them up. Using the same woodworking prowess that made the Vikings such adept shipbuilders, traditional stave churches were often built using nothing more that expertly crafted joints and joins, with no nails or glue.

What is the oldest church in Norway?

Nidaros Cathedral (11th century) is one of the largest and oldest in Norway.

  • Church building in Norway began when Christianity was established there around the year 1000.
  • Church building has been influenced by the role of the State or the Crown.

How were stave churches built?

A stave church is made of wood, and the construction is made out of poles (“staver” in Norwegian), hence the name. Most of the remaining stave churches in Norway were built between 1150 and 1350. In the middle ages there were similar types of churches all over North-Western Europe.

How tall is borgund Stave Church?

Stave churches are typically some 8m (26ft) tall made entirely from wood without a single nail. They are the most elaborate type of wooden construction found in northern Europe.

Is clerestory an example of Ottonian architecture?

Clerestory, gallery and arcade are the examples of Ottonian architecture. Ottonian Architecture is a structural style which advanced during the rule of Emperor Otto the Great. Clerestory, gallery and arcade are the examples of Ottonian architecture.

Who commissioned the Gero crucifix?

Archbishop of Cologne
It was commissioned by Gero, Archbishop of Cologne, who died in 976, thus providing a terminus ante quem for the work. It is carved in oak, and painted and partially gilded – both have been renewed.

How tall is borgund stave church?

What kind of church is Borgund Stave?

Borgund Stave Church is a stave church located in the village of Borgund in the municipality of Lærdal in Sogn og Fjordane county, Norway. It is classified as a triple nave stave church of the so-called Sogn-type. It is also the best preserved of Norway’s 28 extant stave churches.

Where is the old stave church in Norway?

Borgund Stave Church (Norwegian: Borgund stavkyrkje) is a former parish church of the Church of Norway in Lærdal Municipality in Vestland county, Norway. The old stave church is located in the village of Borgund.

Why visit the stave churches in Lærdal?

Borgund Stave Church is a unique example of impressive medieval architecture and is a distinctive landmark on the tourist route to Lærdal. Built around 1180 and is dedicated to the Apostle Andrew. The church is exceptionally well preserved and is one of the most distinctive stave churches in Norway.

What is the Borgund stavkirke?

The Borgund Stavkirke is believed to have been built about 1150 AD outside of what is now Lærdal, Norway at the end of the longest fjord (Sogn fjord) in the country. It is one of the oldest and best preserved Stavkirkes in Norway. Built by the same people that built Viking longboats many of the construction techniques are similar.