Nidaros Cathedral

Before we approach the awe inspiring facade of the cathedral itself, our first practical stop is the adjacent visitor center and ticket office. Situated in a separate, more modern building just a stone's throw from the great…

As you step out of the visitor center and turn to face the cathedral, you are instantly confronted by the spectacular West Front. This staggering wall of intricately carved stone is the undeniable architectural climax of the…

Stepping through the massive doors of the West Front, you officially enter the cavernous main body of the cathedral, known as the nave. The transition from the bright, open air of Trondheim to the dimly lit, highly atmospheric…

As you move eastward from the nave, you arrive at the absolute spiritual epicenter of Nidaros Cathedral: the magnificent Octagon and the high altar. This distinct, eight sided structure at the very eastern end of the building is…

Stepping away from the grandeur of the high altar, I invite you to explore the periphery of the cathedral, where a series of smaller, deeply meaningful side chapels offer a more intimate experience. Make sure to walk all the way…

Our next destination requires us to descend beneath the main floor of the cathedral, into the dark and historic foundations of the building. Look for the entrance to the crypt, which is accessible through a rather narrow,…

Having explored the cavernous interior and the subterranean depths of the cathedral, it is time to step back out into the crisp Norwegian air. We will now undertake a complete circuit of the cathedral's exterior to fully…

Located immediately south of the cathedral, across a wide gravel courtyard, stands the imposing Archbishop's Palace. If you purchased the combined ticket at the visitor center, this is where you will use it next. …

Within the fortified walls of the Archbishop's Palace complex, there is another highlight that surprisingly many visitors accidentally miss. Tucked away in a small, heavily secured museum space on site is the spectacular…

As you stand once again in the open courtyard, taking a final, sweeping look at the towering gray spires of Nidaros Cathedral, take a moment to reflect on the immense journey we have just undertaken. You have walked across the…