Klosterruinen

On the island of Hovedøya, just off Oslo, rise the ruins of the former Cistercian monastery of Hovedøya. The abbey was founded in the 12th century as a daughter house of English monasteries and grew into a wealthy center with extensive landholdings. The monks were also known for innovative farming methods. In the 16th century, the monastery was dissolved during the Reformation and set on fire, after which it served as a quarry for Akershus Fortress. Today, the foundations of the monastery buildings and the remains of the church hint at its former splendor. Of particular interest are the remains of the chapter house with its central column, as well as fragments of stained glass found on the site, which are now on display in the Historical Museum in Oslo.