This summer I had the privilege of visiting the land of my ancestors, Norway. My boyfriend, Paxton, took me to Kongsberg, the town where he was born, where we stayed with his mother for just over two weeks. Located about one hour north-east of Oslo, Kongsberg is an old silver mining town that, although small, is rich with history. The most vivid part of this history is perhaps the Church of Kongsberg, who’s baroque style seems more reminiscent of something that one might find in France rather than submersed in a potentially harsh Norwegian landscape. Upon stepping through a lovely foyer into the Church of Kongsberg’s magnificently ornate sanctuary, I felt transported not only to another time, but to another place as well; it was a beautiful and out of the ordinary experience that I highly recommend due to its unique aesthetic and historic qualities, as well as the potential of the surrounding area. 

Upon hearing the words “church” and “Norway” in the same sentence, minds almost always stray to Stave Churches, those beautifully ornate wooden structures that characterized Norway during the spread of Christianity. No one ever thinks of massive baroque churches existing in Norway, especially in such a small a town as Kongsberg. There it sits, however, surrounded by graves who’s etchings have long since worn away, lovely old trees, and a few bakeries. If you are searching for a unique tourist experience, The Church of Kongsberg epitomizes the unexpected. Where else might you find the breathtaking Norwegian landscape, baroque architecture, and painted ceilings reminiscent of Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel all combined in one? 

Not only is the church a glorious and unexpected combination, it is rich with history as well. Completed in 1761, it is in lovely condition ("Directory of attractions"). In fact, it is so well maintained that services are still held there every Sunday, as well as weddings. Paxton’s parents were actually married there. Aside being available for services and weddings, the church is open for tours for a small fee. Tour-guides give lectures on the extensive history of the church, as well as of Kongsberg, entirely in English. One is free to wander the expansive building at will, though two areas are blocked off, the King’s Box and the organ. The organ, an attraction in and of itself, is “said to be Northern-Europe’s largest baroque instrument,” one that organ aficionados frequent often ("The official travel" ). 

Though it looks rather ordinary from the outside, appearances can be deceiving. From the moment I entered the church, I knew that it was something all its own. The pews were worn smooth with years of use, and the wooden columns, which had been painted to achieve a marble-like effect, gave off the luscious smell of aged wood, complementing the air of the place, which smelled of plain candle wax and old books. Though the smell might have been simple, the rest of the church, however, was not. The ceiling was elaborately painted, complete with scenes of cherubs and the Christ. The pulpit was just as painstakingly decorated. Most astonishing of all, however, was the king’s box. Trimmed in gold, the box is off limits to all visitors; no one save the king and his family are permitted to sit inside. Less elaborate boxes line the second story for the nobles, while bleachers upon the third story allow for even more occupancy, which can reach an astonishing two-thousand, four-hundred people ("The official travel").

If the Church of Kongsberg isn’t enough, one can always enjoy everything else that the fairytale-esque town has to offer. One can take a hike through birch-strewn forest in order to see the seals of Norway’s kings painted upon the side of the mountain. Or, one can golf on the beautiful, eighteen hole course. But beware, Norwegians don’t usually take carts and will charge you an astronomical fee to rent one. In addition, downtown Kongsberg is well endowed with all manner of small shops. Because Kongsberg is a small and remote town that is rarely visited by tourists, however, you will get an actual Norwegian experience, which, in my opinion, is drastically better than touristy locations. Pictures of the king’s seals, golf course, and downtown Kongsberg are located at the bottom of this page; they were taken either by Paxton or myself this summer. 

There are some things that you should know before endeavoring to plan a trip, however. Most importantly, be aware that, though Norwegian summers are beautiful and dream-like, winters are harsh; traveling to Norway in the winter is an entirely different experience, and one that I am not familiar with. In addition, be prepared for the costs involved with staying there. As a socialist country, Norway has heavy taxes, a fact which you’re sure not to miss as you pay the equivalent of eight-dollars for a regular coffee, refills not included. It is interesting to note, however, that those seemingly astronomical taxes go towards free healthcare and education (college included), so Norwegians don’t have many qualms about paying up.

The Church of Kongsberg left such an impression upon me that I have even envisioned having my own wedding there one day; it would be like a wedding out of a storybook. The interior makes one feel as if one isn’t supposed to be there, as if it is sacred, or too old to be touched. Yet, one is allowed to do all of those things, and that is a miracle in and of itself. Whether you go for the history, for the view, or just to have a unique experience that you can get nowhere else, the Church of Kongsberg will provide you will a peaceful alcove of antiquity that sends you away to another time. Perhaps best of all is the fact that, upon finishing a tour, all of Norway is at your leisure, and it is a lovely world indeed.

For a 360 degree panoramic view of the church, visit this website: http://www.360cities.net/image/kongsberg-church-norway#358.00,-22.30,110.0

References

Andersen, K. (Photographer). (2009). Kongsbery church. [Web Photo]. Retrieved from http://www.360cities.net/image/kongsberg-church-norway

Directory of attractions in norway. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.anorwayattraction.com/norway-attractions/kongsberg-church.htm

The official travel guide to norway. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.visitnorway.com/us/Product/?pid=71832

(n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.glogerfestspillene.no/index.php?view=venueevents&id=1:kongsberg-kirke&option=com_eventlist&Itemid=118&lang=en

(n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.heritagetelemark.no/eng/images/old_pictures_from_norway/buskerud/kongsberg_church

Extraneous Travel Pictures from Kongsberg.

Here are some pictures from my trip. I regret not having any of me in front of the Church of Kongsberg, but I had already filled up my disposable cameras...as amazed tourists are want to do. The 360 degree view of the church, however, says it all!

The lovely Norwegian forest. 

The king's seals.

The view from the bridge in Kongsberg.

The town of Kongsberg

Me standing on the bridge overlooking Kongsberg.