Røldal Stave Church

Photo: Ragnar Utne © Riksantikvaren

Røldal Stave Church was built sometime between 1200 and 1300. Having undergone several alterations and restorations, it now has brown-painted horizontal weatherboarding, a substantial roof turret, small-paned windows and slate roofs. A simple rectangular nave and a smaller square chancel form the core of the original stave church.

Key Facts

• Built in the 13th century • Located in Ullensvang, Vestland • Still functions as an active parish church

Brief Overview

• Compact stave church with a dark tarred timber exterior • Interior features a richly decorated medieval crucifix • Set in the dramatic mountain landscape of Hardanger

Unique Features

• Known as a historic pilgrimage site linked to healing traditions • Home to the famous “sweating crucifix” legend • Combines religious significance with deep local folklore

History of the Church

The interior is characterised by the seventeenth century. During restoration in the early twentieth century, the painted decoration was recreated using traces of paint from 1630. Painted draperies imitate panelling around the interior, while the walls and ceiling are richly decorated with colourful foliage. The altarpiece, pews and pulpit are Baroque. The altarpiece, featuring biblical scenes in the centre and catechism texts on the side panels, was made in 1627 by Gottfried Hendtzschel, who created furnishings for several churches in Rogaland. The simple soapstone baptismal font dates from the thirteenth century. Above the chancel opening hangs a large rood—a crucifix dating from around 1250—which was believed to have miraculous powers. Every Midsummer’s Eve, pilgrims travelled to the church to pray for healing. This continued into the nineteenth century, when the dean put an end to the practice. Several of the church’s medieval objects are now held in museums.