The unique architecture of the stave church (or "stavkirke" in Norwegian) emerge in the latter 11th century, blending ancient Norse tradition with a new form of worship.  Recalling the days of shipbuilding techniques, the "stavs" or masts of the vertically placed timbers, to the arches and finer features of joinery and brackets.. to the dragon heads at the "prows" of the gabled roofs; the structure breathes and lives like a Viking ship.  Constructed by island craftsmen.  Because of limited space, the Stavkirke is visited in the Spring and Fall only.