Mention the Olden Church to locals and you might just elicit 2 different locations from them. This is not surprising considering that there 2 churches sharing the same name. Both lie in the village of Olden, located at the north end of Oldedalen Valley but are completely different from each other.

The older church is a beautiful building that was built in 1759. Built on the site of an old, stave church that was demolished earlier, the Old Olden Church reuses the timber from the stave church for certain elements of its structure, including the pew doors and jambs. The church stands out from the lush greenery surrounding it, with its white structure standing majestically in the valley of mountains and lakes. Containing many religious artefacts and statues, its collection includes an edition of the Holy Bible that dates back to the 16th century!

Meanwhile, the new Olden Church was built in 1934 to replace the Old Olden Church as the main church for the parish. Able to accomodate twice as many people as the Old Olden Church, the new structure was designed by architect Daniel J. Muri, and he no doubt wanted this church to be distinct. Its striking red facade makes it easily identifiable from far and yet it retains the rustic charm the Old Olden Church possesses with its largely wooden structure.

Indeed, if you’re looking for some culture in a region renowned for its scenic views and marvellous natural landscape, these churches are for you!