Heddal stave church, Norway
Heddal stave church was constructed at the start of the 13th century and is the largest church of its kind in Norway. It is a triple nave stave church made entirely of timber, save for a stone base.
Stave churches are medieval Christian churches prevalent across north-western Europe. They are characterised by the ‘staves’, or thick timber posts, which hold them in place. They adopt the same woodworking techniques as the Viking shipbuilders, using expertly crafted joints and joins rather than nails or glue.
Heddal stave church is built around 12 large and 6 smaller Norwegian pine staves, as well as four carved entrance portals, and an external gallery which circles the building. Inside, there is a ‘Bishop’s Chair’ which dates from the 13th century, as well as wall-mounted ‘rose’ paintings from 1668 and ornate carvings relating pagan myths and Christian parables.
The church suffered considerable damage during the Reformation, but restoration was undertaken from 1849-51. It was at this time that the church bells were removed and placed in the external bell-tower to reduce the load on the timber structure. Another significant restoration project was required in the 1950s.
Throughout most of the year the church is still in use as Heddal’s main parish church.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
The benefits of engaging with insulation manufacturers
When considering ground floor constructions.
Lighting Industry endorses Blueprint for Electrification
The Lighting Industry Association fully supports the ECA Blueprint as a timely, urgent call to action.
BSRIA Sentinel Clerk of Works Training Case Study
Strengthening expertise to enhance service delivery with integrated cutting-edge industry knowledge.
Impact report from the Supply Chain Sustainability School
Free sustainability skills, training and support delivered to thousands of UK companies to help cut carbon.
The Building Safety Forum at the Installershow 2025
With speakers confirmed for 24 June as part of Building Safety Week.
The UK’s largest air pollution campaign.
Future Homes Standard, now includes solar, but what else?
Will the new standard, due to in the Autumn, go far enough in terms of performance ?
BSRIA Briefing: Cleaner Air, Better tomorrow
A look back at issues relating to inside and outside air quality, discussed during the BSRIA briefing in 2023.
Restoring Abbotsford's hothouse
Bringing the writer Walter Scott's garden to life.
Reflections on the spending review with CIAT.
Retired firefighter cycles world to raise Grenfell funds
Leaving on 14 June 2025 Stephen will raise money for youth and schools through the Grenfell Foundation.
Key points for construction at a glance with industry reactions.
Functionality, visibility and sustainability
The simpler approach to specification.
Architects, architecture, buildings, and inspiration in film
The close ties between makers and the movies, with our long list of suggested viewing.
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
Comments