Nidaros Cathedral, Gothic cathedral in Trondheim, Norway
Nidaros Cathedral is a medieval cathedral in Trondheim, Norway, built from soapstone and combining Romanesque and Gothic elements across its structure. The building extends roughly 100 meters (about 330 feet) in length and displays elaborate window tracery, high vaulted ceilings, and a choir with an ambulatory.
Construction began in 1070 over the burial site of Saint Olav and continued for roughly 230 years until completion around 1300. The Reformation in the 16th century transformed the church from a Catholic to a Lutheran place of worship.
The cathedral takes its name from the old Norse name for Trondheim and serves as the burial church of Norwegian royalty. Pilgrims still walk the ancient St. Olav Ways that end at its entrance, continuing a tradition from medieval times.
Visitors should wear comfortable shoes as some sections include stone steps and uneven flooring. Bringing a light jacket is advisable since stone churches remain cool inside even during summer months.
During summer months, visitors can climb 172 steps up the tower to reach a viewing platform above the city. The soapstone used to build the cathedral is easy to carve but softens over time due to weathering and requires regular replacement.
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