Halsnøy Abbey

Halsnøy Abbey is a monastery ruin on an island in Hardangerfjord, with preserved stone walls and foundations from medieval times. The west wing and several support buildings remain partially visible, revealing the layout of a former religious community.

The monastery was founded in 1163 by jarl Erling Skakke and served as a religious center for centuries. It was dissolved during the Reformation in 1536 when the grounds passed to Crown ownership.

The name refers to the island setting, reflecting its remote location within the fjord landscape. Visitors can observe how the building layout shaped the daily routines and community life of the monks.

The museum grounds are accessible and allow close examination of stone foundations and medieval building techniques. Plan your visit for dry weather, as the island terrain can become muddy after rainfall.

Unlike other Norwegian monasteries that preserve main buildings, this site features primarily auxiliary and support structures. This offers rare insight into the kitchens, storerooms, and workshops that sustained the monastic community's daily operations.