10 Things to Do in St Mary's Church Bergen, Norway
Bergen, Norway is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and its St Mary's Church is a must-see for visitors. Located in the heart of the city, this stunning church is one of the oldest and most important religious sites in the country. Whether you’re a religious person or not, there’s plenty to do and see here. Here are 10 things you should do when visiting St Mary's Church in Bergen.
1. Take a Tour: One of the best ways to learn more about St Mary's Church is to take a guided tour. The church offers a variety of tours, ranging from the basics of the church’s history to more in-depth tours that explore its art and architecture. The tours are available in both English and Norwegian, and they’re a great way to get a better understanding of the church’s history and significance.
2. Attend a Service: St Mary's Church is still a functioning church, and it holds regular services. Whether you’re religious or not, attending a service at St Mary's Church can be an incredible experience. The church is beautiful and the services are often quite moving.
3. Explore the Art: St Mary's Church is home to some of the most beautiful religious art in the world. From the stunning stained glass windows to the intricate paintings on the walls, there’s plenty to explore. The church also has a small museum that houses some of the most important pieces of art in the church.
4. Visit the Bell Tower: One of the most iconic features of St Mary's Church is its bell tower. The tower is open to visitors and offers stunning views of the city. Climb the tower and take in the breathtaking views of Bergen.
5. Admire the Architecture: St Mary's Church is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture. The church was built in the 13th century and has been meticulously preserved over the centuries. Spend some time admiring the intricate details of the church’s architecture.
6. Enjoy the Music: St Mary's Church is home to some of the most beautiful music in the world. The church has a large choir and organ, and they often perform during services. Take some time to sit and enjoy the music of St Mary's Church.
7. Attend a Concert: St Mary's Church hosts regular concerts throughout the year. The concerts are usually held in the church’s main hall and feature some of the best musicians in the country. Check the church’s website for upcoming concerts and make sure to attend one.
8. Explore the Cemetery: St Mary's Church has a large cemetery that is open to visitors. The cemetery is home to some of the oldest and most interesting graves in the city. Spend some time wandering through the cemetery and learning about the people buried there.
9. Attend a Festival: St Mary's Church hosts a number of festivals throughout the year. From the Christmas market to the summer solstice celebration, there’s always something exciting happening at the church. Check out the church’s website for upcoming festivals and make sure to attend one.
10. Visit the Gift Shop: St Mary's Church has a small gift shop that sells a variety of items, from religious artifacts to souvenirs. The shop is a great place to pick up a unique souvenir of your visit to Bergen.
St Mary's Church is one of the most important and beautiful religious sites in Bergen, and there’s plenty to do and see here. Whether you’re religious or not, there’s something for everyone at St Mary's Church. Make sure to take some time to explore the church and experience all it has to offer.