Austråttborgen

Austråttborgen in Ørland dates back as far as 800 years. This manor has been a seat for chiefs and nobility throughout its history. People like Finn Arnesson (ally of Olav Haraldsson), Åsulv Erikson, and Mrs. Inger Ottesdatter (an initiator of the reformation in Norway) are among the people who have resided here. Much is lost over the years but a lot has also been preserved for people of our time to explore.
 

Austråttborgen started as a private church around year 1200, but was later adapted to a private residence, most likely during Mrs. Inger's time early in the 16th century. The manor was extended in the 17th century by Ove Bjelke to the huge renaissance estate that we see today.

The entrance gate, bearing the Bjelke family coat of arms, leads you into the inner complex.

The lower courtyard is a picturesque sight, surrounded by 14 caryatids — human-shaped columns — encircling the space. The main building features a double staircase with Norway’s oldest wrought-iron work, a loggia, and a private chapel with distinguished furnishings, including seven medieval wooden sculptures.

Austråttborgen is today a national property, and guided tours are available during the summer season.

Visit Austrått’s website at nkim.no.