Nidaros Cathedral is a national treasure in Norway for its breathtaking architecture and links to St. Olav, the country’s former king and patron saint. Visit the cathedral to be astounded by its mix of medieval architectural styles, from Romanesque to Gothic. Admire the cathedral’s beautiful stained-glass rose window, climb the tower for unbeatable views of the city or explore deep into the cathedral crypts to see medieval tombstones.
Walk around the cathedral grounds to fully appreciate the cathedral’s monumental façades. Built on the foundations of an 11th-century basilica, Nidaros Cathedral was enlarged into a pilgrimage icon in the following century. Gaze up at the Gothic West Front, which is comprised of seemingly countless symmetrical stone carvings, niches and sculptures centralized around an ornate rose window.
Enter the cavernous cathedral to see its historic interior illuminated by colorful windowpanes. See the Romanesque transept, the early Gothic nave and choir and the 12th-century chapel dedicated to St. John and St. Sylvester. The fascinating scenes of the legend of St. Olav are depicted on the altar frontal. Learn about the heroic Norwegian king who was canonized and buried on this site in 1031. The site attracted masses of pilgrims until the Reformation and the cathedral’s Lutheran conversion.
Discover a collection of medieval headstones in the eerie crypts of Nidaros Cathedral or climb one of the cathedral’s soaring towers to enjoy panoramic views across historic Trondheim.
The cathedral has traditionally been the site for coronation and royal burial ceremonies. Visit the neighboring Archbishop’s Palace to see the coronation exhibition and the Norwegian crown jewels.
Nidaros Cathedral is located on the banks of the river Nidelven in Trondheim’s historic center. Use the visitor center on the cathedral site to organize tours. Check out the gift shop and have a snack at the café. Admission to the cathedral’s special exhibits includes access to the coronation exhibition in the neighboring Archbishop’s Palace. You can also visit the cathedral during services and Masses, which are held several times a week and include enchanting music recitals.
