Hoeggen Church

Hoeggen Church (Hoeggen kirke) is a Church of Norway parish church in the Lerkendal district of Trondheim. Built in brick in the late 1990s, it is a good example of modern Norwegian church architecture, set in an urban neighbourhood rather than in the medieval heart of the city.

Where is Hoeggen Church and who runs it?

The church stands in Lerkendal, in Trondheim Municipality, Trøndelag county. It belongs to the Nidelven parish, part of the Strinda deanery in the Diocese of Nidaros. That diocese carries one of the oldest church traditions in the country, symbolised by Nidaros Cathedral, and Hoeggen is one of its newest buildings.

When and how was it built?

The church was completed in 1997. According to available sources it was built to mark the city's anniversary that year and was consecrated on 12 October 1997. The foundation stone was laid on 19 January. The design came from the Trondheim architectural firm Madsø Sveen. Sources differ slightly on the firm's name: an older account refers to the team of Madsø, Lund and Sveen, from which the present firm descends.

What does the building look like?

It is a long church, a traditional rectangular plan, built of tan brick. It has a freestanding bell tower and a rotunda clad in quarry slate from Drivdalen. Inside, the walls are whitewashed, giving a bright and calm space. The altarpiece and other glass works are by Synva Tufte, who won the competition for the church's decoration. Architecture fans will enjoy the contrast of plain brick, dark slate and coloured glass.

How many people does it hold?

English Wikipedia says the church seats about 430 people. Other sources give different figures, including a lower number from the Trondheim parish council, so treat the capacity as approximate. The interior is used for services as well as concerts and parish events.

Is Hoeggen Church worth visiting?

It is not a headline sight like Nidaros Cathedral, but it is a rewarding stop for anyone interested in contemporary Norwegian church design. Lerkendal is also home to the city's football stadium and university facilities, so a visit fits naturally into a walk around this part of Trondheim. Check opening hours with the parish beforehand, as the interior is often open mainly during services and events.

Frequently asked questions

Is Hoeggen Church old? No. It was built in 1997 and consecrated on 12 October that year.

Who designed it? The Trondheim firm Madsø Sveen.

What is it made of? Brick. The rotunda is clad in Drivdalen slate, and the bell tower stands apart from the main building.

Who made the altarpiece and glass works? Synva Tufte.

Which parish does it belong to? The Nidelven parish in the Strinda deanery, Diocese of Nidaros.

How do I get there? The church is in the Lerkendal district of Trondheim. Check local public transport for current connections.