Trondheim Kunstmuseum Bispegata🏛 museum
The art museum on Bispegata displays modern and contemporary Norwegian art.
🌐 trondheimkunstmuseum.no🕒 Tu-Fr 11:00-18:00; Sa, Su 11:00-16:00
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Trondheim Archbishop's Palace
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palace
The Archbishop's Palace in Trondheim (Erkebispegården) is situated immediately adjacent to the Nidaros Cathedral and is one of the best-preserved medieval buildings in Scandinavia. Construction commenced in the second half of the 12th century, around 1160 to 1170, and the palace served as the residence and administrative hub of the powerful Archbishops of Nidaros until the Reformation in 1537. The complex consists of several stone buildings that were expanded over centuries, featuring grand halls for representation as well as functional storerooms. Following the Reformation, the palace was occupied by Danish governors and later utilized as a military barracks, leading to various architectural modifications. In 1983, a significant fire destroyed parts of the wooden outbuildings, which subsequently allowed for extensive archaeological excavations that yielded vital information about Trondheim's medieval history. Today, the carefully restored complex houses a museum showcasing the Norwegian Crown Regalia and original sculptures from the Nidaros Cathedral, serving as a prominent venue for cultural functions.
Your journey, your memory
A postcard from Trondheim Archbishop's Palace
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Create a postcard- Location: Norway
- Top sights: Trondheim Kunstmuseum Bispegata · Trondhjems Kunstforening · Nordenfjeldske Kunstindustrimuseum
- Nearby: Ranheim (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -4 | -3 | -2 | 3 | 8 | 11 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 4 | 0 | -2 |
| Rain mm | 129 | 112 | 118 | 94 | 94 | 134 | 133 | 136 | 149 | 123 | 122 | 140 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Trondheim Archbishop's Palace is a museum typically open to visitors. You can explore the historic rooms and exhibitions on church history.
Typical hours
The museum is open daily in summer, with reduced hours in winter. It is often closed on Mondays; checking current times beforehand is advised.
Photography
Photography is allowed in the exhibition rooms without flash. Some special exhibitions may have restrictions, which are signposted on site.
Time needed
A visit to the palace typically takes one to one and a half hours. Those wanting to delve deeper into the exhibits should allow two hours.
Combine with
The palace is right next to Nidaros Cathedral, which is a must-see. The bishop’s tomb and the cloister are also just a short walk away.
Getting there
The palace is in central Trondheim, within walking distance from the main train station. Parking is limited on nearby streets or in parking garages.
Insider tip
Combine your visit with a ticket to the cathedral to save money. The combined ticket is often cheaper than buying separate entries.
Geography
Facts
- The oldest sections of the stone palace were constructed as early as 1160.
- It served as the official seat of the Archbishops of Nidaros until the 1537 Reformation.
- It is regarded as the best-preserved secular medieval building in all of Scandinavia.
- Following a major fire in 1983, over 100,000 archaeological items were excavated.
- Today, it houses the Norwegian Crown Regalia in a highly secure vault room.
- The complex features the grand Herresalen hall and a historic central courtyard.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Trondheim Archbishop's Palace (10)
Nidaros Cathedral
Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim is Norway's most important church, former coronation church.
Riksregalieutstillingen🏛 museum
The Riksregalieutstillingen exhibits the Norwegian crown jewels and regalia.
E.C. Dahls park🌳 park
E.C. Dahls park in Trondheim is a green space for recreation.
Erkebispegården🏰 castle
Erkebispegården is a historic archbishop's residence and cultural property in Trondheim.
Trøndelag Teater
Trøndelag Teater in Trondheim features a broad repertoire of plays.
Tordenskjoldparken🌳 park
Tordenskjoldparken is a park in Trondheim.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Archbishop's Palace in Trondheim?
It is one of the best-preserved medieval secular buildings in Scandinavia.
Where exactly is the palace located?
It is located right next to Nidaros Cathedral in the center of Trondheim.
Can the Norwegian crown jewels be seen there?
Yes, the regalia of the Norwegian monarchy are exhibited in a museum wing.
When was the palace built?
Construction began in the late 12th century as a residence for the archbishop.
Are there archaeological excavations there?
In the palace museum, findings from excavations following a 1983 fire can be seen.
Trondheim Archbishop's Palace: where is it located?
Trondheim Archbishop's Palace is located in Norway.
Trondheim Archbishop's Palace: what is there to see?
Highlights include Trondheim Kunstmuseum Bispegata, Trondhjems Kunstforening, Nordenfjeldske Kunstindustrimuseum.
Trondheim Archbishop's Palace: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Trondheim Archbishop's Palace: why is it worth visiting?
The Archbishop's Palace in Trondheim (Erkebispegården) is situated immediately adjacent to the Nidaros Cathedral and is one of the best-preserved medieval buildings in Scandinavia.
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