Photo: Dagfinn Rasmussen
Kaupanger Stave Church was probably built around 1140. The present stave church is the third church on the same location
Its size and number of posts is what makes Kaupanger Stave Church stand out from other stave churches, as well as its interior. The church architecture is also quite different from other stave churches. There are very few carvings on walls, posts and other parts of the interior. This emphasizes the sense of height you experience entering the church. The church is built entirely out of pine from the forest of Kaupanger, and almost with no use of iron rivets. It has been suggested that the roofing and annex were added to the church shortly after the reformation. Also the interior, pews, and the font used for baptism, were added in the 16th centurt, after the reformation.
The fact that the church has been in continuous use, and still is the parish church, also adds to its unique character.
Opening Hours 2026
During the period 1 July – 10 August 2026, guided tours are available through Sognefjord Guiding every hour, seven days a week, between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM (at 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM, and 2:00 PM).
Outside these dates and times, the church is open only to groups with advance bookings.
PLEASE NOTE: Exceptions to the regular opening hours may occur due to a church service on Sunday, 5 July at 11:00 AM, a wedding on 8 August at 2:00 PM, and any funeral services that may take place.
Admission: NOK 150 per person
Contact Information
Contact for visitors during opening hours:
Sognefjord Guiding – Ada Ørnes Tvedt
📞 (+47) 950 05 578
For group bookings:
Sognefjord Guiding
📞 (+47) 90 66 55 33
📧 post@sognefjordguiding.no
CHURCH OWNER
Kaupanger Parish (represented by Sogndal Church Council)
📧 post.sogndal@kyrkja.no
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