Høyjord stave church

Høyjord Stave Church (Høyjord stavkirke) is a medieval wooden church in the village of Høyjord, in Sandefjord Municipality, Vestfold county, southern Norway. It is the only stave church in Vestfold, and one of just three surviving center-post churches in the whole country. For anyone interested in timber architecture or Scandinavian medieval history, it is a worthwhile detour.

What makes Høyjord different from other stave churches?

Stave churches are wooden buildings raised in Norway during the Middle Ages, built around a frame of upright posts. Høyjord stands out for its central post supporting the roof, a rare arrangement in Norway. The dark brown timber building is still an active parish church of the Church of Norway. It serves the Høyjord parish, part of the Sandefjord deanery in the Diocese of Tunsberg, and seats around 150 people.

When was Høyjord church built?

Sources give different dates because the church grew in stages. The chancel is the oldest part and dates from the 12th century. The nave is younger, from the second half of the 13th century. Popular accounts often place the church around the year 1300, linking parts of it to the 1100s and to 1275. The original architect is unknown.

Rebuilding and restoration

The church was rebuilt in the 17th century, which altered some of its original appearance. A thorough restoration took place around the middle of the 20th century. It was completed in 1953 under architect Otto L. Scheen. As a result the building keeps its medieval character and counts among the region's most valuable historic monuments.

Where does the name Høyjord come from?

The village is named after the old Høyjord farm. Its Old Norse form, Haugagerði, refers to a fenced area containing burial mounds, which hints that the site mattered long before the church was built.

Planning a visit

Høyjord lies inland within Sandefjord Municipality, so a car is the easiest way to reach it, and the stop pairs well with a day exploring the town and the Vestfold coast. Because it is a working church, check opening hours for the interior with the parish or Visit Vestfold beforehand. The exterior and surroundings can be enjoyed in any season.

Frequently asked questions

Is Høyjord the only stave church in Vestfold? Yes, it is the only surviving one in the county.

How many people does it seat? About 150.

Is it still in use? Yes, it is an active parish church of the Church of Norway.

Who designed it? The medieval architect is unknown. The restoration of the 1950s was led by Otto L. Scheen.

What is a center-post church? A church whose roof is carried by a single central post inside the building. Only three such churches survive in Norway, Høyjord among them.