The Arctic Cathedral, also called Tromsdalen Church or Ishavskatedralen, is a parish church on the mainland side of Tromsø, Norway. Architect Jan Inge Hovig designed it, and it was completed in 1965. Its sharp, pale shape stands out against the mountains, and most visitors spend their time on the outside. Inside, a large stained-glass window adds colour and light to a calm, plain room. Walk around the building for different angles, then go in if you want to see the window and the organ up close.
Design and construction
Jan Inge Hovig designed the church, and it was completed in 1965. Its structure is built from eleven concrete panels faced with aluminium, set in sharp triangles. The shape is often compared to icebergs, the boathouses of the Arctic coast and Sami tents. After dark, strip lights between the panels make the building glow.
The church stands in the Tromsdalen valley on the mainland. Tromsdalen Church is its formal name. Ishavskatedralen is the Norwegian name, and the Arctic Cathedral title is a nickname. It is a parish church, not a cathedral in the strict sense.
Inside the church
The interior is calm and minimal, with pale surfaces and plenty of daylight. The large stained-glass window is the focal point, and it is made as a glass mosaic. Chandeliers of Czech crystal hang in the room, and a pipe organ with close to 3,000 pipes fills one end. The main space seats around 600 people.
The church is still in use. Services and events take place here, so keep your voice low and move quietly if you go in while one is under way.
Concerts and seasonal events
The church hosts concerts through the year. From early December to the end of the month, there is a series of concerts and choral performances. In summer, midnight sun concerts bring a mix of classical music, folk songs and hymns, and in winter, northern lights concerts are held. The acoustics suit concerts well, and a concert is a good reason to plan a longer visit.
Concert tickets are the best reason to book ahead. Check the church's website for the current programme before you travel.
Getting there
Walking is the most direct route. Cross Tromsø Bridge from the centre, which takes about 25 minutes on foot. The bridge is over a kilometre long, so allow time for the crossing. The bridge also gives good views of the city on the way.
Buses stop near the church, and one stop is right in front of it, so you can take a bus back to the centre. The lower station of the Fjellheisen cable car is a few minutes' walk away, so the two can be combined in one visit. The entrance, restroom and parking lot are wheelchair accessible.
Entry fee and the view outside
Entry to the interior costs 90 NOK. The exterior and the grounds can be seen without paying, and walking around the building shows different sides of the design. From the cathedral area you can see Tromsøya island and the mountains around the city.
If you are short of time, spend your visit outside. Many visitors who go inside find the interior modest, so the exterior is the better use of a short stop.
Häufige Fragen
Is there an entry fee?
Yes. Entry to the interior costs 90 NOK. You can see the outside of the building without paying.
How long do you need at the Arctic Cathedral?
A visit usually takes 30 to 45 minutes. Allow extra time for the walk across Tromsø Bridge if you are coming from the city centre.
How do you get to the Arctic Cathedral from the city centre?
You can walk across Tromsø Bridge, which takes about 25 minutes. Buses also run to the church, and one stop is in front of it.
Can you attend a concert at the Arctic Cathedral?
Yes. Christmas concerts and choral performances run from early December to the end of the month. Midnight sun concerts are held in summer, and northern lights concerts in winter. Tickets are best bought in advance.
Is the Arctic Cathedral wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The entrance, the restroom and the parking lot are wheelchair accessible.
