7+Lag Stevne July 9-12, Austin, MN

Heddal Stave Church Johannes Flintoe 1828

Notodden Kommune

Pop. 13025; Area 984 sq. km. (380 sq. mi.)
Church Parishes: Gransherad, Heddal, Lisleherad, Notodden
Historic Churches: Gransherad, Heddal, Lisleherad

Notodden, situated at a low altitude in Telemark, has a humid continental climate that makes it one of the warmer locations in Norway during the summer. The town from which the Kommune takes its name is located at the mouth of the river Tinnelva on the shores of Lake Heddalsvatnet. Despite its name, which means “headland for net fishing,” Notodden is renowned as a center of a different kind of industry. The Tinfoss waterfall, as depicted in the coat of arms, was harnessed for hydroelectric power in the late 1800s. The saltpeter plant, a pioneer in large-scale artificial fertilizer production, was established in 1905. Although this industrial development would soon spread to Rjukan, Notodden’s unique significance is underscored by its UNESCO World Heritage distinction.

Just outside the city center, Heddal is home to the largest Stave Church in Norway. Along with its open-air museum, the church, less than an hour from Oslo, is a popular tourist destination. The present chancel, believed to have been built in 1147, is the oldest part of the church. The rest of the church dates back to 1242. It is constructed as a basilica, with 12 larger and six smaller interior columns, and features a gallery that encircles the entire building. The church is adorned with four intricately carved portals, and its interior is embellished with ancient wall paintings and rosemaling from the 1600s. In 1849, a restoration project was initiated, which was completed in three years. In 1952, a more comprehensive restoration was carried out, rectifying many of the issues from the first. Heddal Stave Church is one of only 28 surviving stave churches in Norway.

Many opportunities for outdoor recreation are available year round, and the Notodden Blues Festival, considered one of the best blues festivals in Europe, takes place there in August every year.

Notable People from Notodden:

Margit Bakken (born 8 April 1967), a blues musician and songwriter

Helga Stene (1904 in Notodden–1983), an educator, feminist, and resistance member

Helga Flatland (born 1984 in Notodden), a novelist and children's writer

Emperor, one of the most influential Norwegian black metal bands.

Hans Herbjørnsrud ( 1938 – 2023), an internationally known author who was born in Heddal