Grip Stave Church

The wooden church stands on Gripholmen island, featuring traditional Norwegian architectural elements with dark timber walls and steep rooflines against the sea backdrop.

Built in 1470, this religious structure endured numerous storm surges that damaged the surrounding fishing village while the church remained standing through centuries.

The church represents Norwegian religious architecture from the Middle Ages, marking the transition from Catholic to Protestant worship after the 1537 Reformation.

Visitors reach the church by taking a 45-minute boat ride from Kristiansund, with tours operating between May and August for 320 NOK per adult.

The structure remains the central point of Gripholmen island, where the last permanent residents left in 1974, transforming the settlement into a summer-only community.

Location: Kristiansund Municipality

Inception: 15 century

Architectural style: stave church

Operator: Kristiansund kirkelige fellesråd

GPS coordinates: 63.18970,7.63611

Latest update: March 3, 2025 21:12