“full-size replica of 13th century church”
A full-size replica of the Gol Stave Church, which was moved from Gol, Hallingdal to the Folk Museum in Bygdoy Park in Oslo, Norway about 100 years ago, has a place of honor in the Heritage Park. A groundbreaking ceremony, which was attended by many dignitaries from Scandinavia and America, was held on October 12, 1999. The church was dedicated on October 10, 2000 and the inaugural service was held on October 9, 2001. Myron D. Peterson, M.D. chaired the committee dedicated to building this 60-foot by 45-foot at the base by about 60-foot-high memorial to the pioneer immigrants who uprooted themselves from Scandinavia to make new homes in North America. Noted wood carvers Philip Odden and Elsa Bigton of Barronet, Wisconsin have completed the intricately-carved front and side portals and doors. Inside the church, the corner posts are essential. They are often accentuated, and are heavier and more richly decorated than the other structural elements. "They represent the four gospels whose teachings are the supporting foundation of all Christianity" is the description given in a sermon in the thirteenth century. This sermon was held during a church consecration, in which each section of the stave church's structure was related to spiritual values. The beams upon which the columns rest "signify God's apostles, the foundation of all Christianity." The floor boards represent "the humble men who bow in honour; the more they are exposed to the trampling feet of the congregation, the more support they provide."
Great stop during road trip. Visitor’s Center and nice walking path to enjoy and stretch your legs. Recommend it.
The stove church is resplendent with its exterior and interior wood carvings and with the stop. The dala horse is also wonderful. I stayed 20 min but was glad to have stopped by.
A replica of a famous Norwegian church that was built in the 1200's, this crazy building is located in the Scandinavian Heritage Park. Here, you can also find a statue of Hans Christian Andersen, a Danish windmill, and 25-foot-tall Swedish Dala horse as well-- so you know it does a good job of paying tribute to all kinds of aspects of Scandinavian culture.
Be the first to add a review to the Gol Stave Church Museum.
Gol Stave Church Museum
Hours
- Sun: 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm
- Mon - Sat: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Problem with this listing? Let us know.
-
Parking
-
Pets Allowed
-
Restrooms
-
Wifi
-
Wheelchair Accessible
-
Credit Cards Accepted
-
Outdoor Seating
Parking, Dining
Nearby Hotels
Related Trip Guides
Road Trip Down US 83: The Road to Nowhere
- 36 Places
- 34:43
- 1,869 mi
The Great Northern is a 3,600 mile, cross-country odyssey
- 57 Places
- 69:15
- 3,565 mi
Road Trip Down US 83: The Road to Nowhere
- 36 Places
- 34:43
- 1,869 mi