St Olaf’s Church

Here, you don’t need to gaze off into the distance. Just tilt your head back and look up to appreciate the height of St Olaf’s Church. Just be careful not to strain your neck! Built between the 12th and 13th centuries, this religious landmark is one of the most striking structures of medieval Europe. According to some historians, it held the title of the tallest building in the world from 1549 to 1625, thanks to its spire that once reached 159 metres. That impressive height made it a valuable landmark for merchant ships arriving by sea, but there was also a downside. The spire made an excellent lightning rod. Over the centuries, the church was struck by lightning at least ten times, three of which ended in devastating fires that completely destroyed the structure. In the 19th century, the structure’s height was reduced to 124 metres, which helped prevent lightning-related disasters. As for its name, legend has it that the church was named after a young worker who completed the tower alone after six of his colleagues fell to their deaths. In reality, it honours King Saint Olaf, the first king of Norway to be baptised.