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At Stiklestad, just north of the center of Verdal in North Trøndelag, on July 31 in the year 1030, King Olav Haraldsson was killed in a battle against a rebel army. The Battle of Stiklestad signified the end of Viking era, the beginning of the medieval kingdom and a victory of Christianity in Norway. The slain King Olav has since been remembered as a martyr and was canonized as the Holy King Olav. His grave in the Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim became the destination of pilgrims from all over the continent.
Every year the battle is revived through the pageant "Spelet om Helag Olav", during the week leading up to St Olavs day, July 29. This outdoor performance draws about 20,000 spectators yearly to the battleground. On the exact spot where the king fell, Stiklestad church was erected in 1150. In the Cultural Center you can experience a multimedia presentation and see the "Stiklestad 1030" exhibition.
Getting there: You can reach Verdal by bus, train or car. Drive E6 in the direction north of Trondheim. Take to the east at Verdalsøra and drive highway Rv757 to Stiklestad. About 1 ½ hours. |
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