About this place
Trinity Church (Trefoldighetskirken) is a Lutheran church in the Hammersborg district of central Oslo, right beside the government buildings of Regjeringskvartalet. Its red brick body, central dome and two slender towers make it one of the capital's most recognisable landmarks.
What does Trinity Church look like?
The church was consecrated in 1858. It is neo-Gothic and built on a cruciform plan. The facades are red brick, and a large eight-sided dome rises over the crossing, flanked by two narrow octagonal towers. The octagon is the recurring motif, and the building is regarded as one of Norway's grandest examples of church architecture based on that shape.
Who designed it?
The original design came from Alexis de Chateauneuf of Hamburg. His pupil Wilhelm von Hanno later modified the plans and played a large part in shaping the interior details. The result blends German neo-Gothic tradition with its Oslo setting.
What is there to see inside?
The nave seats around 1,200 people. The altarpiece is a painting of the Baptism of Jesus by Adolph Tidemand, one of Norway's leading nineteenth-century painters. The decor also includes chandeliers designed by Emanuel Vigeland and stained-glass paintings by Frøydis Haavardsholm. The tall, bright space under the dome suits both services and concerts.
Where is it and how do you get there?
The church stands on a small rise in the city centre, a few minutes' walk from Karl Johans gate and the government quarter. It is an easy stop on a stroll through central Oslo. Walk all the way around the building: the brick walls, towers and dome look different from every side.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Trinity Church in Oslo? In the Hammersborg area of the city centre, next to the government buildings.
When was it consecrated? In 1858.
What style is it? Neo-Gothic, cruciform, built of red brick with an octagonal dome and two towers.
Is it a Lutheran church? Yes.
How many people does it hold? About 1,200 seats.
Who painted the altarpiece? Adolph Tidemand; it depicts the Baptism of Jesus.
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