Heddal Stave Church, Notodden, Norway

The largest wooden stave church in Norway features three naves and three turrets. It was built in the early thirteenth century and has been restored several times. Staves are rods or pillars used specifically for this type of church construction.

Of the one thousand or so stave churches in Norway, only twenty-eight survive. The extensive churchyard surrounding the church holds a large cemetery.

Above is the peaceful view from Cafe Olea where we ate lunch. 

Heddel Stave Church seemed stunningly unusual to our American eyes. We'd never seen anything quite like it before.

So incredibly beautiful in its stark simplicity. We felt like we'd stepped back in time.

Intricate carvings adorn the doors, the meanings of which are unknown. 

The carving above includes a snake, perhaps representing the serpent in the Garden of Eden from the book of Genesis in the Bible.

The interior is like a museum with various furnishings and artwork from different centuries. We enjoyed wandering around and taking in the medieval atmosphere.

Heddel Stave Church still functions as a parish church of the Church of Norway, holding regular services, baptisms, confirmations, and weddings. We were so glad to stumble upon this interesting place in the summer when it is open to the public. A worthwhile stop!