Kongsgård, Stavanger

Kongsgård is a medieval estate adjoining Domkirken cathedral, distinguished by its Gothic stone vault basement. The property comprises multiple wings and displays architectural remains from several construction periods spanning the High Middle Ages to the early modern era.

The estate began around 1125 as a bishop's residence and evolved into an administrative center for religious and secular governance. Following the Reformation, it served military purposes before transitioning to an educational facility in 1824.

The name Kongsgård reflects its royal connection and role as a residence for high-ranking clergy who wielded both religious and secular authority. Visitors can observe spaces where important decisions affecting the community were made during medieval times.

Access is from the street beside Domkirken cathedral, where the ruins are partially exposed and visible from various angles. It makes sense to combine a visit here with a walk around the adjacent cathedral to better understand the city's medieval architecture.

The stone basement dates to the late 13th century and was built during the same period as the Gothic choir in the adjacent cathedral. Recognizing this parallel construction helps visitors appreciate the architectural connection between both buildings and their shared role in medieval Stavanger.