St. Mary's Church (Mariakirken)

Overview

St. Mary's Church (Mariakirken) is the oldest surviving building in Bergen, a twin-towered Romanesque church dating from around 1130. Located beside Bryggen, it served as the parish church for the Hanseatic merchants throughout the medieval period.

Highlights

• Romanesque architecture: Massive stone walls and rounded arches from the early 12th century.
• Baroque pulpit: A richly ornamented 1676 pulpit with carved biblical scenes.
• Triptych altarpiece: A late-Gothic winged altarpiece from the 15th century.

History

Built around 1130, St. Mary's is one of the finest Romanesque churches in Norway. From the 14th century it was closely associated with the Hanseatic merchants, who worshipped here in German. It was the last church in Bergen to switch from German to Norwegian services, in 1868.

Visitor Tips

• Opening hours: Limited outside summer; check ahead.
• Combine with Bryggen: The church is steps from the Hanseatic wharf.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.