Uvdal Stave Church, Medieval stave church in Nore og Uvdal Municipality, Norway.
Uvdal Stave Church is a timber structure featuring tarred exterior walls and carefully decorated portals depicting medieval heroic poetry. The interior impresses with multicolored ornamental decorations covering walls and structural elements.
The building traces back to the 11th century, as shown by archaeological excavations in 1978 that uncovered over 500 coins beneath the church floor. Between 1721 and 1723, the structure underwent major reconstruction that gave it the cruciform shape and roof turret seen today.
The carved halfmasks on the church poles are understood in local tradition as protective symbols against supernatural forces. These decorations shape the interior appearance and reflect old beliefs that still resonate when visiting.
The site is easily accessible and offers free parking for visitors. Guided tours are managed by Fortidsminneforeningen, providing informed insight into the historic location.
The building was originally rectangular but underwent a comprehensive transformation that converted it into a cruciform shape, completely changing its outline. This radical alteration is unusual for stave churches and shows how places of worship were adapted to new needs.
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