Description: With only two days free from wedding related activities, we had to pack in a lot of sightseeing into very little time.
Utstein Kloster (Abbey) was at the top of that list. I had heard about Norway's only well-preserved medieval monastery from my Danish host family. They know my interest in historic buildings so it was only natural this was our first stop.
The drive to Utstein Kloster is just as interesting as the Abbey itself. The area is dotted by islands joined by tunnels and bridges. The islands often rise 100s of metres above the sea providing a stunning and picturesque view of the fjord as you follow the highway. The landscape around the Abbey is bleak with few trees thanks to the constant winds. As we rounded one of these bleak rocky hills the Abbey came into view. The Abbey is situated at the edge of an island bordered by water and dramatically high hills teeming with sheep. The landscape evoked visions of Robin Hood and his band of merry men... except for the fact that this is not Sherwood Forest but southern Norway. I can see why this location was chosen for the quiet contemplation of those entering religious life - it is peaceful and isolated.
The Abbey is mentioned in 9th-century historical records as a garrison for
King Harald Fairhair. Originally a royal farm, construction of the
Augustinian monastery began around 1260. The Augustinians lived a pious life full of regular prayers and services. Physical work was banned but somehow that ban only applied to the 20-30 monks living at the monastery. Lay-brothers did all the work. The Abbey was wealthy supporting about 250 people year-round. After the Reformation, the monastery and its property were returned to the Crown and subsequently passed into private ownership. Today it is run as a museum and conference centre.
We headed to Utstein Kloster on a Monday and wouldn't you know it, the museum is closed on Mondays. Just our luck! There was, however, a function under way so we were able to enter the courtyard and wander the gardens. The buildings bear the typical white-washed exterior of the Reformation. On closer examination you can see stonework that appears to be out of place revealing renovations that took place over the years. My visit definitely wet my appetite for a return visit, one that will be much better planned than our impromptu visit and that will allow me to check out the museum.
Utstein Kloster is located 20km from Stavanger. Take E39 north, through the 5.8 km long tunnel passing 223m below sea level. Drive through the toll booth and over the bridge. Turn right at the sign for Mosterøy (a gas station and the Ryfylke Islands tourist office are located here). Turn left at the traffic circle and follow the road across the island to Klosterøy. The Abbey is at the end of the road. Free parking is available at the base of the Abbey.Close