The Belgian Royal Couple Visited Gol Stave Church
Photo: Koninklijk Paleis / Loan Silvestre
King Philippe and Queen Mathilde visited the Gol Stave Church during their state visit to Norway. The unique wooden church from around 1200 was moved to Oslo in the 19th century to preserve it for the future.
As part of their state visit to Norway, King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium visited the Gol Stave Church in Oslo. The unique wooden church was originally built around the year 1200 and stood approximately 150 kilometres outside Oslo. In the 19th century, the church was dismantled and rebuilt in the capital to ensure its preservation for the future.
King Philippe and Queen Mathilde in the carved doorway of Gol Stave Church. Photo: Koninklijk Paleis / Loan Silvestre
The stave church's distinctly Scandinavian architecture, where Christian symbols and Viking motifs come together, is a beautiful symbol of Norwegian cultural heritage. The Royal Couple viewed the detailed wood carvings adorning the church's portals and interior, with dragon ornaments and vine patterns that bear witness to a rich artistic tradition.
Queen Mathilde exploring the interior of Gol Stave Church. Photo: Koninklijk Paleis / Loan Silvestre
Queen Mathilde at Gol Stave Church. Photo: Belga
Gol Stave Church stands today at the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History at Bygdøy in Oslo and is one of the best-preserved stave churches in Norway. The visit gave the Belgian Royal Couple an insight into Norway's rich cultural history.