Bønsnes Church, Hole

This medieval stone church is connected to St. Olav primarily through his childhood in just this ancient and fertile agricultural community. It's located with a wide view southwards over the Tyri Fjord. Through centuries, local farmers cared for and maintained Bønsnes Kirke.

Online

www.kirken.no/hole

Address

Bønsnes, 3530 Røyse

Open

Summerseason

Distance

At the path

According to the legend, this romanesque styled stone church, was built by St. Olav whom the church is dedicated to. More likely, the church was built under Olav Kyrre's reign (1066-1093).

The church was poorly maintained throughout the 16th and 17th century, but was renovated in the late 17th and early 18th century. The wooden tower in front of the west gable was probably built in connection with roof and masonry repairs in the 1850s.

A beautiful Madonna sculpture carved in wood from approximately 1250 is one of the gems in the church, along with a crucifix from the 15th century. This is the only part that remains of the original medieval interior.The pulpit and altar was built around 1700.

Reference: www.kirkesok.no

Photo: kirkesøk.no