Stiklestad is situated some eighty kilometres by road north of Trondheim. The Stiklestad open air theatre with seats for at least 5500 of Norwegian size and sociability. This theatre exists essentially for 'The Play about Olaf the Holy' (i.e. St. Olaf), which has taken place every 29 July (St. Olaf's Day, 'Olsok' in Norwegian) since 1954. Olaf Haraldson fell in the battle of Stiklestad that day in 1030, allegedly in his attempt to create a Christian country. The next year he was declared holy, and this helped assemble the somewhat fragmented country and making it Christian (at least superficially). However, we may suspect that the real motive behind it all was power.

(2009-10-21)

The Stiklestad National Culture Centre (left) has been active since 1996 arranging all kinds of cultural events throughout the year, including the Play mentioned above and the St. Olaf's Day Festival during a week or so preceding and including the Day itself. They have also a restaurant, a hotel, exhibition areas and conference areas. In the background the old Stiklestad church is seen.

(2014-10-05)

This Monument – is erected the Year 1805 in Memory of – King – Olaf Haraldson – Called the Holy – who fell in the Battle of Stiklestad – the 29 July 1030 [translation of the inscription]

(2014-10-05)

Statue behind the theatre: "St. Olaf raising the cross towards sunset" by Dyre Vaa, 1973.

(2014-10-05)