Trondheim

The Nidaros Cathedral (West Wall)

From Tromso we headed for Trondheim, Norway's third largest city and home to the impressive Nidaros Cathedral. Built on the site of the final resting place of St.Olav, the patron St. of Norway, the Nidaros is an excellent example of medieval architecture which is said to have taken it's inspiration from both Canterbury Cathedral and Westminster Abbey. As you turn the corner from the northern side of the building you enter a square, as you turn to look up at the western facade of the cathedral you are greeted with a truly magnificent sight, with a statue of each Saint placed in it's own niche along the western wall, the building is immense and towers over you. The intricate detail of the sculpture and the stunning rose window are both awe inspiring. Inside the cathedral is just as equally as impressive as the exterior with the most beautiful stained glass windows letting in streams of red and blue light which bathe the interior in a colourful glow.

Next door to the Nidaros Cathedral is the Arch Bishop's Palace. It is here that the Norwegian Royal Regalia is housed. Trondheim has played host to many of the Coronations of Norway's monarchs, sharing the honour with both Bergen and Oslo, however, in 1814 it was decided that Trondheim was to be the permanent venue for the Coronation but it didn't last long as nowadays no coronation actually takes place, only the benediction blessing now forms the ceremony as it is seen that the Coronation holds no legal significance, this blessing service is still held in Trondheim.

Stiftsgarden Royal Palace

Despite the glamour of the Crown Jewels and royal ceremonies, Trondheim has so much more to offer than the Nidaros Cathedral. It is a beautiful city, with impressive buildings such as the wooden Stiftsgarden Royal Palace, home to the Norwegian Royal Family when they visit. We also visited the university which specialises in Science and Technology in Norway. With new developments being built on the quayside, the old and the traditional sit very well side by side.

A trip to the Nidaros Cathedral was one of the main reasons we chose this cruise and it did not let us down. I felt a true connection with the history of Norway in Trondheim, more than I did on any other stage of this cruise. It may be a little off the beaten track with regards to the bigger cities of Bergen and Oslo but Trondheim is well worth  going that little further north to uncover this true Norwegian gem.

Panoramic view of Trondheim