About

The Michael’s Cave is a unique and historic grotto located in a steep cliff face, approximately 30 meters above the lake Norsjø in Skien, Telemark, Norway. This impressive natural formation, which once served as a Catholic church and pilgrimage site, is a popular and exciting hiking destination offering fantastic views over Norsjø. The cave is clearly visible from the water and combines nature, history, and a challenging outdoor experience.

Location and Description of Mikaelshulen

Location: Cliff face above Norsjø, Skien (near Skotfoss center).
Size: Semicircular entrance 4–5 meters wide and equally high. The cave extends 20 meters into the mountain.
Accessibility: Accessible by boat and on foot, but the approach is steep.
Safety: The trail has recently been secured against rockslides and equipped with steps, fencing, and rope railings.

Access to Mikaelshulen

Despite the steep terrain, Mikaelshulen is a well-marked destination.

By Car: Follow signs to Pollen from Skotfoss center.
Parking: Parking is available on Omdalsvegen.
Hiking Trail: Follow the blue-marked trail from the parking lot. The final meters leading up to the cave are in steep terrain.
Note on Weather: The trail can be slippery when wet, especially on the steep section.

 Access from Norsjø by Boat

For those arriving by water, it is possible to moor directly beneath Mikaelshulen. A steep path with steps and railings then leads up to the cave opening.

History: Michael's Church and Pilgrimage Site

The Michael’s Cave is an important cultural heritage site with a fascinating history dating back to the Catholic era.

Consecration: The cave was consecrated to Archangel Michael during the Catholic period (before 1537) and functioned as a church with a vestibule, nave, choir, and altar.
Symbolism: Michael's churches were often located in caves or on cliffs, as Archangel Michael was said to fight Satan, who often took the form of a serpent or dragon, there.
Pilgrimage: It was an important pilgrimage destination.
After the Reformation: Following the Reformation in 1537, the cave served as a last refuge for Catholics until 1843.
Templum Mirabile: In 1643, the cave was referred to in Latin as "Templum Mirabile" – the wondrous temple.
Father Sylvester: Allegedly the last monk in the area who lived and died here. He was buried behind the church's back wall.
Burial Site: It is assumed that there was a burial site (cemetery) on top of the cliff, essentially a church with a cemetery on the roof.

Responsible Travel and Usage

We encourage all visitors to practice responsible travel to preserve the unique natural and cultural environment.

  • Always follow marked trails to protect the ecosystem.
  • Take all your trash with you.
  • Respect local rules and wildlife.

Religious Events: For the use of the cave for religious events, the landowner must be contacted (check with Skien Municipality).