As the first buds of spring unfurl in the heart of Norway, I, your Norwegian Storyteller, have woven together narratives as rich as the history of Hamar itself. Picture this: a quaint restaurant, the concept of 'hygge' wrapped around us like a warm shawl, and the stunning Lake Mjøsa acting as the perfect backdrop to tales of pilgrimages and medieval wonders. I share my personal springtime adventures, from the culinary delights that tantalize the taste buds to the serene whispers of nature that beckon the soul. You'll be transported to the Cathedral Point, where history's echoes are almost tangible, and feel the pride in Hamar's role during the 1994 Winter Olympics.
The journey doesn't end there, as we also talk about THE NORWEGIAN PILGRIMS PATH. The melodies of Taryn Harbridge, whose tunes cradle our stories, elevate the experience, and if music is a language that speaks to you, you're in for a treat. Remember, our shared tales are the threads that bind us, so I encourage you to reach out via Facebook or Instagram to add your voice to our community tapestry. Let's gather around the proverbial fireside and celebrate the narrative magic we create together.
As the first buds of spring unfurl in the heart of Norway, I, your Norwegian Storyteller, have woven together narratives as rich as the history of Hamar itself. Picture this: a quaint restaurant, the concept of 'hygge' wrapped around us like a warm shawl, and the stunning Lake Mjøsa acting as the perfect backdrop to tales of pilgrimages and medieval wonders. I share my personal springtime adventures, from the culinary delights that tantalize the taste buds to the serene whispers of nature that beckon the soul. You'll be transported to the Cathedral Point, where history's echoes are almost tangible, and feel the pride in Hamar's role during the 1994 Winter Olympics.
The journey doesn't end there, as we also talk about THE NORWEGIAN PILGRIMS PATH. The melodies of Taryn Harbridge, whose tunes cradle our stories, elevate the experience, and if music is a language that speaks to you, you're in for a treat. Remember, our shared tales are the threads that bind us, so I encourage you to reach out via Facebook or Instagram to add your voice to our community tapestry. Let's gather around the proverbial fireside and celebrate the narrative magic we create together.
Dear listener, thank you for continuing to follow me. My statistics only reveal the city and the country you're from, but I want to know more about you. Do you have a story to share? Please connect with me on Facebook or Instagram. The Norwegian Storyteller is my name, like the page and then send me a personal message if you'd like me to feature your story on my podcast. We can all tell stories together. Every tale matters, whether it's fun fact, life-changing events, historical moments, favorite cake recipes, cat stories or anything else you prefer.
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Exciting news this week, I've had my first customers at my Storytel business. If you visit my Patreon, you'll find all the products I offer. I specialize in crafting artistic stories, whether for personal or professional purposes. Reach out to me via Facebook or Instagram and I'll give you 50% discount on all my projects. Additionally, there's a special offer on my Patreon Anyone who signs up for the paid version will join me for a free storytelling webinar. Normally that would cost money, so it's a fantastic deal for you. And now I'm excited to share today's stories.
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Yesterday, I visited the city of Hamar, located in the inland region of Norway. I'll take you on an exciting journey, experiencing both modern and historical Hamar. Additionally, there's a little bonus coming up towards the end of the episode. Then I'll follow the footsteps of the pilgrims who walked the long path from Oslo to Trondheim during the Middle Age. This journey had a spiritual purpose and, thanks to the dreams of some passionate individuals over 20 years ago, the entire Pilgrim's Trail still exists today. There are special markers along the route and parts of its path through Hammer City Center. So get ready for an exciting episode. I have plenty of fascinating stories to share. Anyway, let's tell stories.
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It's springtime in Norway. The weather is hot. I have finally put aside all my winter clothes. There is no such thing as a Norwegian longing for the winter to get away, longing for the first glimpse of summer and sunshine. We all get out when it's getting warmer. The dark and cold winter is finally over. If you listen to the sound behind me is finally over.
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If you listen to the sound behind me, I'm sitting in a restaurant called Hygge. It is hard to translate that word directly into English, but it is a Norwegian word for describing the feeling of having a good time. Ha det hyggeligt. The word is often used describing an experience you had with a family or friends. We went to that place and had a really nice time together. We went to that place and it was hyggelig Sitting on this cafe.
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I will tell you some stories from the place. I'm having it, hyggelig, hygge. The food is really good. By the way, I ordered something called burrata salad. It was a vegetarian dish with cherry tomatoes, walnuts, pomegranate walnuts yeah, I wrote two times walnuts in the manuscripts, I can see but walnuts, apricot jam and a burrito cheese in the middle, like a round burrito cheese. I have never tasted that cheese before, but I googled it and it was actually called the queen of Italian cheese. It reminds a bit about the mozzarella, but the consistency is much softer. I definitely preferred the burrata over mozzarella. Tasting it for the first time in my life Now I am a burrata fan.
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So anyway, let's tell stories about Hamar. So now I'm walking in the streets of Hamar while I'm talking about this cool, small, cute little city. It's located in Inlander County and it is a town with a rich history and stunning natural beauty around. As the administrative center of Hamar municipality, it sits on the shores of Mjøsa, norway's largest lake. So let's delve into what makes Hamar a must visit destination. Hamar's roots trace back to the Middle Ages, once a powerful center and it played a crucial role in Norway's history. Over time, the town shifted to its current location, near Rosenlundvika, now Domkyrkaobben, where you can explore fascinating ruins and historical sites. So what to do in Hamar? Well, I just walked on the beach promenade night Køygen. Here you can take a leisurely stroll along the lakeside promenade, where you can breathe in fresh air and admire the picturesque surroundings. You hear the seagulls and laughter of children playing, bathing and having it hyggelig with friends and family.
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This is not far from the Domkirkeodden, like I told you, which offers a blend of history and natural beauty. It's also known as the Cathedral Point and it is a captivating museum of medieval culture and history. Nestled along the picturesque shore of Lake Mjøsa, it boosts the ruins of the medieval Hamar Cathedral, now preserved under the impressive glass enclosure known as Hamardomen. As you explore this enchanting site, you'll be transported back in town, surrounded by the centuries-old architecture and the serene beauty of the lake. When you experience the harmer cathedral, you experience the like um bricks dating back to the 1200s and enjoy the views of lake myosa like the people in the medieval date. It's kind of interesting feeling just to stand there and watch this. And there's another cool thing about this place and that is a real steamboat. It is called Skiblander and you can hop on board on this historic paddle steamer which cruises on Lake Mjøsa. It's a delightful way to experience the water and enjoy the views. Speaking of Lake Myösa, it's worth dedicating time to appreciate its whistleness. Whether you choose a boat or just simple sit by the shore, the lake's view is really beautiful.
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As I already told you, and if you, like me, remember the 90s, you might remember that the Winter Olympics in 1994 was in Norway. Most of the activities was in Lillehammer town, but also the neighbor Hamar got to be a part of the Hyggelig event. In Hamar you can visit the iconic Viking ship, iconic vikingship vikingship area arena, vikingship arena, known for its impressive architecture. Originally built for the 1994 winter olympics, it now hosts various events and exhibitions. I have actually visited it in winter time with my sons and we walked on the ice and so on.
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There is so much to see and do in Hamar. You have like a railway museum and a beautiful church to visit, and don't forget all the nice restaurants and coffee bars you find in this city, and that is really a higgly place to go out and you can have traditionally Norwegian food or food from all over the world. I'm always impressed when I'm in Hamar because there are so many possibilities when it comes to higgelig places to dine. Well, if you want some more info about this place, please google, visit Hamar, norway, and you will get more info about it. Because now I'm ending this podcast episode with a really exciting story. So we are now leaving the modern Hamar and we will go hundreds and hundreds and hundreds, and maybe thousand years back in time, because now we're going to walk in the footsteps of a pilgrim. So just wait for it. Now the story, the end is coming.
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Before I start the tale about the pilgrim's path in Norway, I want to tell you about the pilgrim's progress. That remains one of the most captivating allegories of faith ever written. Set against the backdrop of both town and country, this powerful drama follows the trials and temptations of a pilgrim on his harrowing journey to the celestial city. It was written by John Bunyan in the 1600s. John lived from 1628 to 1688, and he was an English writer and Puritan preacher for that time. I learned about the pilgrim's progress from a Nepali friend called Anil Tamang last summer. So, anil, thanks for the story.
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This episode is dedicated to you and all the other pilgrims walking a long path this year. It can be both physical and spiritual. The story begins with a narrator falling asleep in the wilderness and dreaming of a man called Christian. Tormented by spiritual anguish, christian encounters a spiritual guide named Evangelist. Evangelist urges him to leave the city of destruction, emphasizing that salvation lies only in the celestial city, mount Zion.
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Christian's journey is fraught with challenges. Along the way he falls into the slough of despond but is saved. He meets a wise man who advocates for a practical, religion-free existence. However, christian rejects this path and seeks shelter in God's will's house. There he learns valuable lessons about faith and the interpreter. Walking along the wall of salvation, christian sees Christ's tomb and cross. His burden falls away and one of the three shining ones, ones, hands him a rolled certificate, a ticket to the Celestial City. Unfortunately, christian loses the certificate in his sleep, leading to self-reproach.
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Christian meets mistresses of the Palace, beautiful, who provide shelter, food and arms. He faces the monster Apollyon, strikes him with a sword and continues through the valley of the shadow of death. Along the way he befriends fellow travelers like Faithful and Hope. In the wicked town of Vanity, christian and Faithful visit a famous fair. They resist temptation but are mocked by the townspeople. Faithful is executed and rises to heaven, while Christian is imprisoned by escape by ends. A pilgrim who exploits religion for personal gain crosses their path, but Christian rejects his company. As Christian and hopeful journey onward, they encounter more challenges, including the smooth-talker Demas and the threats of doubting Castel's owner, giant Despair. Their unwavering faith propels them towards the celestial city where salvation awaits.
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The Pilgrim's Progress reminds us that life's journey is filled with trials, but faith and perseverance leads us toward our ultimate destination. The story is not only captivating us with this exciting journey, but it also makes an important point and reminder that medieval people were not fundamentally different from us. Written during a time when pilgrim parts were popular, this book weaves an exciting tale rooted in reality. Much like contemporary novels and films, which draw inspiration from real-world themes, the Pilgrim's Progress drags a delicate balance. It transports readers to spiritual landscapes while infusing elements of fantasy. Just as we crave both authenticity and imagination in our modern entertainment, so did a medieval audience seek narratives differently that resonated with their souls yet sparked wonder. As we delve into Christians' quest for the celestial city, we glimpse our shared humanity across centuries a timeless pilgrimage of faith, trials and hope. In the rich tapestry of medieval life, faith was not an abstract concept. It was woven into the very fabric of existence.
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Christianity played a central role in European society during the Middle Ages, shaping everything from daily routines to monumental architectural endeavors. One tangible expression of this faith was the pilgrimage, a spiritual journey undertaken by believers to visit holy sites. Motivations for pilgrimage could be healing and divine help, or penance and forgiveness. Several pilgrimage destinations capture the heart of medieval travelers, such as Rome, canterbury, santiago de Capistela and Jerusalem. We also had a pilgrim path in Norway, the Saint Olavs Path, also known as the Pilgrim's Route or the Old King's Road, and it winds its way through the picturesque landscapes of Norway. Its way through the picturesque landscapes of Norway, this ancient pilgrimage route leads to the Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim, where the medieval tomb of Saint Olof rests. If you want to go the path, the entire route exists today. It also has its own website and you can walk the entire route or just parts of it. I walked some parts of it in the summer of 2022 and 2023, and for me it was a spiritual journey for body and soul. I also had the pleasure of walking, together with my husband and our two sons.
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The St Olos consists of nine pilgrim routes, each guiding travelers towards the Nidrøs Cathedral. These paths span approximately 3,000 kilometers on tranquil scenery, passing through charming villages dipped into cultural heritage. Gudbrandavsleden is the most popular route, spanning 643 kilometers, begins in Oslo and ends in Trondheim. This path served as the main road to Nidaros during the Middle Ages, so if you walk this way today, you'll encounter historical landmarks, untouched nature and medieval farms offering local culinary delights and comfortable lodging, and medieval farms offering local culinary delights and comfortable lodging. There are also other routes, eight in total, and each has its own character. Whether you choose the Østerdalsleden, romboleden or Nordleden, you'll immerse yourself in Norway's rich history and natural beauty.
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While pilgrimages traditionally had religious purposes, seeking healing or remission of sins, the Saint Ola ways are now open to everyone. Modern pilgrims embark on this journey for various reasons. Still, the majority is Christian and are reading the Bible and spiritual Christian literature along the route, but some also walk by secular reasons. The reasons can be like education. Some view it as an educational tour delving into Nordic history and culture. You can really visit a lot of exciting places by feet, and it is a journey you will never forget. My husband has a master's degree in history and we really enjoy the historical places around the route. Since I'm a Christian and he's more agnostic, we could still enjoy the route in different ways. There's also some personal experience and motivation behind some of the pilgrimage and it becomes deeply personal for many people and a chance to connect with oneself and the world. You get close to the nature and for me it was like getting close to God also.
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Planning your pilgrimage can actually be done if you want to go, if you want to be a modern pilgrim, and there are several ways to do that. You can either be self-guided and create your own unique trip using the trip planner at the website. There you see a lot of different suggestions and that is what we did when we went through some of the trips. And long distance hiking isn't just walking. It's a rhythm that frees your mind for introspection and appreciation of small wonders, and it can be exploring the morning dew, a butterfly dance and so on. Or maybe you prefer being a part of a guided group, and there is a lot of groups to join, both Christian and secular. In the Norwegian church you have priests working as pilgrim priests, so feel free to join a guided group hike, for camaraderie and shared experiences.
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There is also an alternative path, from coast to coast, because the St olaf path stretches from the baltic sea in sweden to the atlantic ocean in norway, so it's really huge. It's journey that transcends borders, connecting two countries through faith, history and shared joy of walking. Because you know, norwegian people, and I guess also the swed, are hiking people, we enjoy the nature and we enjoy walking outside, so the pilgrim path is really a good thing for us. It's very close to who we are actually Well, so just find your hiking boots now and follow these ancient footsteps, or just using your sneakers as something if you want to go a shorter trip. Anyway, discover the magic of the St Olof's Path.
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I will put the link in the description of this podcast if you are interested. So there is also an English version on this webpage, and we have a lot of tourists coming from all over Europe from Germany, from Holland and so on to walk this. Yeah, thank you for taking the time to listen. The background music that is played right now is produced by the wonderful Taryn Harbridge. Like me, you will also find her at Patreon. Music that is played right now is produced by the wonderful Taryn Harbridge, like me. You will also find her at Patreon. Remember what I said in the beginning of this episode about following me in Facebook and Instagram and share your stories with me. I would really appreciate that. So goodbye for this time, fellow travelers no-transcript.
