Ruins

Norwegian Print

There are about 90 ruins of medieval buildings and other stone structures in Norway. Most of them are churches, but there are also remains of monasteries and castles. The best-known site in Norway is the ruins of Hamar cathedral. A permanent structure enclosing these ruins was built in 1998.

The monastery of Tautra. Photo: ©Directorate for Cultural Heritage

State: The ruins are in better condition
Pressure: Frost damage threatens the ruins
Response: A management program

Many medieval ruins in Norway were in poor condition. Therefore, the Norwegian Directorate for Cultural Heritage started a ten year programme for the protection of the ruins in 2006.

Frost damage threatens the ruins

State
Pressure
Response

Ruins are threatened by exposure to the elements such as frost damage, running water and unchecked vegetation, wear and tear.

A management program

State
Pressure
Response

Norway's ruins are in need of conservation, and access for the public must also be provided. Better management regimes and plans for conservation in the future are also necessary to ensure that local people and visitors understand the value of these ruins and their surrounding areas as archaeological monuments. The Norwegian Directorate for Cultural Heritage started a ten year programme for the protection of the ruins in 2006.