Stiftsgården

Stiftsgården in Trondheim is the largest wooden palace in Scandinavia and the King's official residence in Trondheim. With its 140 rooms spread over 4,000 square meters, it is one of the largest wooden buildings in Northern Europe and a masterpiece of Norwegian architectural history.

The building was erected in 1774-1778 for Privy Councilor Cecilie Christine Schøller, one of Trondheim's wealthiest women. The architect is unknown, but the palace reflects the transition from Rococo to Neoclassicism. The facade has the simple, disciplined lines of Neoclassicism, while the details are in Rococo style. The building consists of a main wing and two side wings, built in log timber clad with external paneling.

In 1800, the Schøller family sold the palace to the state due to financial problems. The building was then used by the regional court and as an official residence for the county governor. In 1906, Stiftsgården was officially chosen as the royal residence in Trondheim.

Stiftsgården has been the center for some of the most important events in Norwegian history, including the coronations in 1818, 1860, 1873 and 1906, as well as the royal blessings of King Olav V in 1958 and King Harald V in 1991. When the building is not being used by the royal family, the reception rooms are open to the public with guided tours.