10 Things to Do in Tønsberg Cathedral (Tønsberg Domkirke) Tønsberg Norway
Tønsberg Cathedral (Tønsberg Domkirke) is a stunningly beautiful and historically significant cathedral located in the city of Tønsberg, Norway. This magnificent building is one of the oldest cathedrals in Norway, with a history that dates back to the 11th century. Visitors to Tønsberg Cathedral can explore its rich history and admire its spectacular architecture. Here are 10 things to do in Tønsberg Cathedral.
1. Attend a Church Service: Tønsberg Cathedral is a working church, and visitors are welcome to attend a service. Services are held in Norwegian, but there are also services in English and German.
2. Tour the Cathedral: Visitors can take a guided tour of Tønsberg Cathedral to learn more about its history and admire its architecture. The tour includes a walk through the crypt, where the remains of the cathedral’s founder, Olav Haraldson, are buried.
3. Explore the Bell Tower: The bell tower of Tønsberg Cathedral is one of the oldest in Norway. Visitors can climb the tower to get a spectacular view of the city and the surrounding countryside.
4. Visit Olav’s Chapel: Olav’s Chapel is located in the south transept of Tønsberg Cathedral. This chapel was built in the 13th century as a memorial to Olav Haraldson.
5. Marvel at the Stained Glass Windows: The stained glass windows of Tønsberg Cathedral are some of the most beautiful in Norway. The windows were created by the Norwegian artists Bendikt Olavson and Harriet Eide.
6. Admire the Altar: The altar of Tønsberg Cathedral is made of marble and dates back to the 12th century. It is decorated with a relief of the Last Supper.
7. View the Relics: Tønsberg Cathedral houses several relics, including a piece of the True Cross, a fragment of the Shroud of Turin, and a piece of the Crown of Thorns.
8. Attend a Concert: The acoustics of Tønsberg Cathedral make it an ideal venue for concerts. Visitors can attend classical music concerts, organ recitals, and other musical events.
9. Visit the Museum: The Tønsberg Cathedral Museum houses a collection of artifacts related to the cathedral’s history. Visitors can learn more about the history of the building and its significance in Norwegian culture.
10. Take a Walk in the Garden: The garden of Tønsberg Cathedral is a tranquil oasis in the city. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the garden and admire the flowers and trees.
Tønsberg Cathedral is a must-visit destination for visitors to Norway. With its rich history and stunning architecture, the cathedral is a beautiful reminder of the past. Whether you’re attending a service, exploring the museum, or taking a stroll in the garden, Tønsberg Cathedral is sure to be a memorable experience.