THE BLISS OF SELJE
Discover the History and Heritage of Stad.
Stad is a region shaped by legends, history, and dramatic nature. Explore the stories behind the iconic landmarks featured in your design and learn more about the unique heritage of this coastal region.
Stad is a region shaped by legends, history, and dramatic nature. Explore the stories behind the iconic landmarks featured in your design and learn more about the unique heritage of this coastal region.
St. Sunniva
St. Sunniva is the legendary patron saint of Western Norway. According to tradition, she was an Irish princess who fled persecution and sought refuge on the island of Selja. Her story of faith, courage, and martyrdom has inspired generations and remains a powerful symbol of spiritual strength in Norwegian heritage.
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Selja Monastery
Nestled in the dramatic coastal landscape of Selja Island, Selja Monastery was founded around the year 1100 by Benedictine monks. It is one of Norway’s oldest pilgrimage sites, built near the cave where St. Sunniva was believed to have died. The monastery stands as a quiet monument to early Christian life in the region and the enduring legacy of St. Sunniva.
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Selje Church
Selje Church (Selje kyrkje) is a white wooden church located in the village of Selje in Stad Municipality. It was built in 1866 and designed by architect Georg Andreas Bull. The church has a long church design and seats around 320 people. It replaced an older medieval stone church that had fallen into disrepair. Today, Selje Church remains an important local place of worship and a notable example of 19th-century Norwegian church architecture.
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Stad Municipality
Stad Municipality is located on the rugged western coast of Norway, in the county of Vestland. The area is known for its dramatic landscapes, including steep mountains, deep fjords, and a long, weather-exposed coastline. The Stad peninsula is particularly notable for its strong winds and rough seas, making it one of the most challenging stretches of coast for maritime travel in Norway. The region also has a rich cultural and historical heritage, with ties to early Christianity, Norse traditions, and medieval trade routes.
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