Mikael's cave

About

Mikael's Cave is located in the middle of a cliff face, about 30 meters above Lake Norsjø in Skien, and is clearly visible from the water. The cave entrance is semicircular, 4–5 meters wide and roughly the same in height. Inside, the space opens up to a greater height and extends about 20 meters into the mountain.

The cave is an exciting hiking destination and is accessible by both boat and foot, although access can be somewhat challenging. By boat, you can dock directly below Mikael's Cave. A steep path leads from the water up to the cave, equipped with steps and a handrail.

New Rockfall Protection, Fence, and Rope Handrail

The cliff by the popular trail has now been secured against rockfalls. In addition, a new fence and rope handrail have been installed, and the hiking trail has been cleared of vegetation and loose stones.

Access

By car, follow the signs to Pollen from Skotfoss center. There is parking along Omdalsvegen, and a blue-marked trail leads to the cave. The final stretch to the cave traverses steep terrain. During wet weather, the trail can be slippery, especially on the steep section leading up to the cave.
The coordinate provided refers to the parking area.

Access at Your Own Risk

The last part of the trail to the cave is challenging, and signs indicate that access is at your own risk. Mikael’s Cave was closed in 2018 due to a rockfall but reopened in September the same year. In the fall of 2022, some safety improvements were planned.

Religious Events in Mikael's Cave

If anyone wishes to use the cave for religious ceremonies, the landowner must be contacted. Check with Skien Municipality. The municipal chief medical officer must also be consulted regarding infection control.

History

The cave is believed to have once been equipped with a vestibule, nave, choir, and altar. In Catholic times, it was consecrated to the Archangel Michael. Masses were held here even after the Catholic era, and it was an important pilgrimage site. Although naturally formed, the cave was likely modified by humans. It is said that a burial site once existed on top of the mountain — essentially a church with a cemetery on its roof.

There are about 20 known churches dedicated to St. Michael in Norway. These were often located in caves or on rocky outcrops, where the Archangel was believed to fight Satan, who took the form of a serpent or dragon.

Over the centuries, the cave has been widely mentioned. A Latin description from 1643 calls it Templum Mirabile — “the wondrous temple.” This refers to the belief that the church was consecrated during Catholic times until 1537. From the Reformation until 1843, the cave served as a final refuge for those loyal to Catholicism. During that period, it was a capital offense to be a monk, and Father Sylvester was the last monk in the region. He died there and was buried behind the church’s rear wall, where the sacristy is believed to have been located.