Oslo Domkirke (Oslo Cathedral)

Description:

• Oslo's restored 1697 cathedral at Stortorvet (the marketplace) contains works by 20th-century Norwegian artists, including bronze doors by Dagfin Werenskiold and a 1950 tempera ceiling by Hugo Louis Mohr. The choir features stained-glass windows crafted by Emanuel Vigeland (not to be confused with the sculptor, Gustav), and in the transepts are those by Borgar Hauglid. The pulpit and altarpiece, carved in the late 17th century with lovely motifs of acanthus leaves, also remain to delight. The five-story-tall organ dates from the 18th century and would challenge even a budding Norwegian Liberace. Most visits here take half an hour. A bilingual service (in Norwegian and English) is conducted on Wednesday at noon, and an organ recital is presented on summer Saturdays at 1pm. Tip: For a great panoramic view of Oslo, go to the nightwatchman's room in the steeple, which was added in 1850.

• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Recommended 2010