Norway's Stave Churches: Architecture, History and Legends

The Norwegian Stave Churches are unique - there are no structures like them anywhere in the world. They posses a striking individuality, a character that is distinctively Norwegian. One cannot enter a stave church without being overwhelmed by a feeling of awe. The architecture enhances the spiritual message of the church and the staves , the masts that support the entire structure, also elevate one's thoughts. More than 800 years have left their mark on these ancient structures, and cause us to reflect on our heritage in wonderment and humility. Imagine the moments of love, sorrow, hope, and faith that these churches have witnessed between 1100 and the present.