Abbeys monasteries and convents Norway

The Dominican monastery was built in 1216 in stone, but brick was the predominant material at the time of its renovation in 1300, and its aesthetics were subsequently modified. After the Reformation in 1537, the east wing of the structure became the residence of the Lutheran pastor in charge of the monastery. There is unfortunately not much to see, but these are among the few ruins of the original Oslo, before the new capital Kristiania moved in around the marina. A few meters further on, two other ruin sites are worth a walk.

Hovedøya features the ruins of a Cistercian monastery as a reminder of its history. The monastery dates back to 1147, and was founded by English monks from Kirkstead Abbey. Very prosperous during the medieval period, it also belonged to the Norwegian army and was the scene of armed conflicts linked to the succession to the Danish-Norwegian throne. Later, it was used as a stone quarry to build the Akershus fortress. At the heart of the island of Hovedøya lies Klosterkroa. Set in the heart of nature, this timeless café is ideal for a break.

Probably founded in 1250 by Magnus Lagabøter, Utstein Monastery is set in beautiful surroundings and surrounded by gardens. Dating back to the Middle Ages, it was the royal residence of Norway's first king, Harald the Fair-haired, before being handed over to the monks of Stavanger in the ^12th century. Today, the private manor house offers a privileged setting for occasional concerts in the monastery church, as well as mass every Sunday.