The 10 Best Historic Sites in Rogaland, Western Norway

Utstein Monastery is Norway's only well-preserved medieval monastery. The buildings were originally intended as a royal residence, but an Augustinian monastery was founded there in around 1265. After the reformation in 1537, the monastery and its property were returned to the crown, and it subsequently came into private ownership. The property has been in public ownership since 1935. Today, it is run as a museum and conference centre. Concerts are also held there. The cultural landscape around the monastery is protected by law.

This German coastal artillery complex at Sirevag is a reminder of Word War II, built by the occupiers to defend Jaeren. There are several underground corridors - bring a flashlight if you wish to explore them. Signposted from Rv44.

Spinneriet culture centre is situated by the Hjelmelandsana river in Hjelmeland, Ryfylke. Old spinning mill with a varied history, now renovated for cultural activities: History of the Jaeren rushwork chair, art exhibitions and handcrafts for sale. Coffee and waffles in summer. Art exhibits in Spinneriet. For further info, please contact Hjelmeland cultural office, tel. (+47) 51 75 71 51.

Nordvegen History Centre – one of Norway’s most important areas within national history!For 3000 years chieftains and kings controlled the strait Karmsundet – Nordvegen – the shipping lane that gave Norway its name. At Nordvegen History Centre you can learn about the sovereigns that controlled the coast of Norway from Avaldsnes. Some of them are known from kings’ sagas and old songs. Others are known from archaeology.You will also get a glimpse of the magic world that people once believed to be real. You’ll meet sorcerers, female warriors and Norse gods.At the History Centre we will tell stories using instruments of our own time – it is a grand, informative and very exciting place to visit!Sells local literature, large and small Viking souvenirs. You can also purchase a selection of locally produced goods such as mittens and socks, and creams and soaps made from heather. Nordvegen History Centre also sells Viking jewellery, including Snorre jewellery. The Viking settlement is situated in beautiful natural surroundings on the island of Bukkøy and is accessible on foot with a 10 minute walk from St. Olav's Church. Here it is possible to see and experience how the Vikings lived. Every aspect of the day-to-day life of the Vikings, from work to celebrations including farming, fishing, handicrafts, commerce, art and culture are on display here. Many buildings typical of Viking times are re-constructed using original techniques and of special interest is the granary and round house from the pre-Christian era. The other buildings are replicas from around 900 AD. Adjacent to the settlement is a pier with a capacity for large boats complete with service building including modern toilet facilities. The Viking Hall is also available by private rental for diverse social arrangements.

The only remaining intact Quaker House in Scandinavia with its own cemetery. Open by arrangement.