Trondheim Cathedral School

Trondheim Cathedral School is a school building located next to Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim, Norway, comprised of two main structures. The older Harsdorff building dates from 1786, while a later extension designed by Carl J. Moe from 1920 expanded the complex.

The school was founded in 1152 alongside Nidaros Cathedral and stands as the oldest continuously operating educational institution in Norway. It has experienced several major reconstructions since then, including neoclassical expansions in the 18th and 20th centuries.

The Festival Hall displays two marble reliefs by Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen that show the Nordic artistic traditions of the 19th century. These sculptures are woven into the school's interior life and mark its connection to broader European artistic circles.

The school grounds are centrally located in Trondheim next to one of Norway's major medieval monuments and are easy to reach on foot. Keep in mind that it remains an active school, so guided tours or interior visits may have limited availability depending on the academic calendar.

Excavations in the schoolyard have uncovered evidence of human activity from the pre-Roman Iron Age, including traces of ancient farming. These archaeological findings reveal that the site's history goes far deeper than the medieval school that stands there today.

Location: Trondheim municipality

Inception: 1152

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Operator: Trøndelag fylkeskommune

Phone: +4792082872

Email: postmottak.katedralskolenvgs@trondelagfylke.no

Website: http://trondheim-katedral.vgs.no

GPS coordinates: 63.42860,10.39610

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:07