Camera: Mamiya 645AF     Lens: Mamiya 645 N 2.8/55mm AF     Film: Agfa RS200     Date: 26.06.1991

Urnes Stave Church, Vestland, Norway

Today a UNESCO World Heritage site, this 12^th century church sits on a promontory overlooking Lustrafjorden, Norway's longest and deepest fjord. The church is an outstanding example of traditional Scandinavian wooden architecture, bringing together traces of Celtic art, Viking traditions, and Roman basilica style structures. The word “stave” means sturdy wood columns that are the corner posts and columns which uphold the overall architectural structure. The stave style is defined by using upright wall planks. The church has not been in ordinary use since 1881, when the parish of Urnes was abolished. It is now only used for special occasions such as baptisms and weddings.