2. Medieval Churches in Nordland

Hannah Fulton

Dønnes Church

During this course we got the opportunity to visit many medieval churches in both Helgeland and Salten municipalities. Since there are only 11 remaining stone churches in Northern Norway, these churches are an interesting look back into history and the lives of the people living in the middle ages. After the year 1000, when the conversion to Christianity began  in Norway, the construction of many churches occurred to house members of the clergy. Stone  churches were most likely built by certain members of society that could afford the high costs of constructing stone buildings of big enough size to hold a fair portion of the community. Additionally, these churches were commonly built in areas which had good accessibility, a central location, and the ability to be seen from the surrounding area. I found it interesting to learn that members of the clergy  often chose sites with pagan religious significance to try to integrate the community to Christianity more effectively. Although some Viking chieftains resisted conversion, eventually Christianity found its way into Norwegian culture. 

Small, narrow windows common in Romanesque architecture

These medieval churches, built in the 12th and 13th centuries, display Romanesque architecture. The thick, solid walls and small windows typical of the time are displayed here at Dønna church. It is also important to note that, because of extensive rebuilding in later periods, the style of the churches today are no longer purely Romanesque. For example, the expansion of windows to almost double their size was implemented after the initial construction and then later restored to their original state. It was interesting to walk around inside the churches and observe the various ornaments and decorations inside (some original, some not). I am impressed that some of these churches still house congregations, even in modern times.

Restored windows on Dønnes Church

Artwork in Dønnes Church depicting the 9 Virtues as women