St. Olav's Cathedral

St. Olav's Cathedral is a Catholic cathedral in the Hammersborg neighborhood of Oslo built entirely from red brick in the Gothic Revival style. The building features pointed arches and tall windows and was designed by Heinrich Ernst Schirmer and Wilhelm von Hanno.

The cathedral was founded in 1852 as the Catholic community in Oslo was beginning to grow and establish itself. Its formal consecration was delayed until 1896 because Norway had no Catholic bishop at that time to perform the ceremony.

The cathedral serves a diverse congregation from around the world and holds services in multiple languages including Norwegian, English, and Polish. Visitors notice how this space brings together people from different backgrounds who come to worship together.

The cathedral is located near Our Saviour's Cemetery in a central area that is easy to reach on foot. It welcomes visitors on most days and provides quiet spaces for prayer and reflection.

Inside the cathedral is a case containing what is believed to be a bone fragment from the arm of Saint Olav, displayed since the 1860s. This relic is one of the few religious remains kept in Norway and draws the attention of both pilgrims and curious visitors.

Location: Oslo Municipality

Inception: 1852

Architects: Heinrich Ernst Schirmer, Wilhelm von Hanno

Architectural style: Gothic Revival

Made from material: brick

Website: http://katolsk.no/okb/domkirken

GPS coordinates: 59.91816,10.74413

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:05