Austråttborgen

As the seat of chieftains and nobles, the manor house has been the seat of powerful figures in Norwegian history, from Finn Arnesson - King Olav Haraldsson's menn - via Åsulv Eriksson - Duke Skule's pioneer - to Mrs. Inger Ottesdatter - the Reformation's fan bearer. Much has been lost over the years but great cultural values ​​have also been handed down to our time.

Austråttborgen started as a private church around 1200, but was later rebuilt into a private residence, probably during Mrs. Inger's time in the early 16th century. Then the manor house is expanded in the 17th century by the Chancellor of the State Ove Bjelke to the Renaissance castle we meet today.

The entrance gate with the family of Bjelke's Coat of Arms, leads you into the interior.

Lower courtyard is a picturesque sight with 14 karyatids - columns in human form - that surround the space. The main building has a double staircase with Norway's oldest wrought iron work, loggia and its own chapel with distinguished furniture, including 7 medieval wooden sculptures.

Austråttborg Castle is now a national property, and there are guided tours during the summer season.