Borgund Stave Church | Norway’s Best-Preserved Stave Church

Q: Can you go inside Borgund Stave Church?

Yes. Access is via the visitor centre during the open season (spring to autumn).

Q: Is Borgund Stave Church still used for services?

No. It is preserved as a cultural heritage site, not an active parish church.

Q: How long should I plan for?

Allow 45–90 minutes to visit the church, the visitor centre exhibits, and a short section of the King’s Road trail.

At a glance

Built: c. 1180–1200
Location: Borgund, Vestland, Norway
Type: Triple-nave stave church
Materials: Pine staves, tarred shingles

Why it’s famous

Dragon-head ridge posts recalling Viking longships
Runic inscriptions and a richly carved west portal
Picturesque setting along the historic King’s Road

Visitor information

Season: Spring–Autumn (limited winter access)
Visitor centre: Tickets & exhibits
Time needed: 45–90 minutes

History & Architecture

Built around 1200 CE, Borgund Stave Church is the best-preserved example of Norway’s medieval wooden churches. Its layered timber roofs, dragon-head gables, and interlaced portal carvings blend Viking symbolism with Christian iconography. Upright “staves” (load-bearing posts) form a robust timber frame, while tarred shingles protect against harsh mountain weather.

The church stands beside the medieval Kongevegen (King’s Road), a historic route between east and west Norway. Careful conservation means visitors still experience original details—from weathered beam ends to beast-knot motifs—much as travelers did centuries ago.

Exterior view of Borgund Stave Church with layered wooden roofs — Exterior overview

Dragon-head roof details on the ridge posts — Dragon-head roof details

Getting There

Borgund is in Lærdal, Vestland county, on the scenic route between Oslo and Bergen. Free parking is available at the visitor centre, a short signed walk from the church.

Plan Your Visit

✔ Open spring–autumn via the visitor centre
✔ Allow 45–90 minutes for church and exhibits
✔ Best light for photos is late afternoon

Make the most of your trip by pairing Borgund with the UNESCO-listed Urnes Stave Church, a walk on the Vindhella section of the King’s Road, and nearby fjord viewpoints.

Explore Viking Tours Stay Nearby

Nearby Sites

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you go inside Borgund Stave Church?

Yes. Access is through the visitor centre during the open season from spring to autumn.

Is Borgund Stave Church still used for services?

No. It is preserved as a protected cultural heritage site rather than an active parish church.

How long should I plan for?

Allow 45–90 minutes to see the church, visit the exhibits, and walk a short stretch of the King’s Road.