Årdal Old Church and Prestavegen / "The Bailiff Murder on a Miserable Riding Road"
During this tour, you won’t just learn more about the church itself, but also about Prestavegen, which was once in such poor condition that a priest lost his life there. And perhaps a bailiff was also removed from the road by the people of Årdal?
The 400-year-old Renaissance church in Årdal is renowned for its well-preserved wall decorations. As an annex church, its priest once had to ride from the main parish in Hjelmeland for services, navigating the treacherous Prestavegen—a path so perilous it claimed a priest's life. On this tour, you'll learn about the church's history, the infamous Prestavegen, and the local legend of a bailiff’s mysterious death on the trail.
Inside the church, you'll also meet the outspoken priests of the 19th century.
Meeting Point:
Årdal Old Church
Date and time:
Saturday, May 31, 2025
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Price:
150 NOK
For booking, contact magnar.riveland@hjelmeland.kommune.no.
Source: Reisemål Ryfylke
Årdal Old Church and Prestavegen / "The Bailiff Murder on a Miserable Riding Road"