Is Gol Stave Church original?

It is a historically accurate reconstruction from the late 19th century using medieval elements and documentation. The original site was in Gol, Hallingdal.

Yes, when open with the museum’s visiting hours, often seasonally. Guided visits are offered in peak seasons.

Gol Stave Church | Reconstructed Medieval Church in Oslo (Bygdøy)

Q: Where is Gol Stave Church located?

The reconstructed Gol Stave Church stands at the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History on Bygdøy in Oslo. The original church came from Gol in Hallingdal.

At a glance

Built: Medieval origin (c. 1200) — reconstruction c. 1880s
Location: Bygdøy, Oslo (originally Gol, Hallingdal)
Type: Stave church reconstruction with medieval elements
Materials: Pine staves, tarred shingles

Why it’s famous

Iconic open-air museum centerpiece in Oslo
Medieval-style carvings and steep, tiered roofscape
Connects city visitors to Norway’s rural stave church heritage

Visitor information

Museum: Norwegian Museum of Cultural History (Bygdøy)
Access: Seasonal interior access with guided visits
Time needed: 45–90 minutes (church + museum grounds)

History & Architecture

The Gol Stave Church visitors see today stands at the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History on Bygdøy, Oslo. It is a faithful 19th-century reconstruction of a medieval stave church originally located in Gol, Hallingdal. Using surviving medieval elements and detailed documentation, the project preserved the church’s traditional timber frame (staves) and dramatic, steeply tiered roof forms.

As a museum centerpiece, Gol introduces city visitors to Norway’s stave church tradition—linking medieval rural architecture to a modern urban setting. Carved portals, shingle patterns, and interior timber details echo the craftsmanship seen across Norway’s surviving stave churches.

Exterior view of Gol Stave Church at the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, Bygdøy — Exterior overview

Carved details at Gol Stave Church — Carved details

Tiered roof and tarred wooden shingles at Gol Stave Church — Roof & shingle details

Getting There

The church stands inside the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History on Bygdøy, Oslo. The peninsula is easily reached by bus or ferry from the city centre. Museum facilities, tickets, and exhibitions are on-site.

Plan Your Visit

✔ Located inside the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History
✔ Allow 45–90 minutes for church and museum grounds
✔ Combine with Bygdøy’s other museums (Viking ships when reopened)

Make the most of your day on Bygdøy by visiting nearby attractions and waterfront trails. For more heritage across Norway, explore our full list of stave churches and Viking sites.

Explore Viking Tours Stay Nearby

Nearby Sites

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Gol Stave Church located?

At the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History on Bygdøy in Oslo. The original church came from Gol in Hallingdal.

Is the church original?

It is a faithful reconstruction from the late 19th century, based on medieval elements and documentation from the original church.

Can I go inside?

Yes, during museum opening hours and seasonal guided visits.