The Urnes Stave Church (ca 1050) is the oldest of its kind in Norway. Between the 11th and 14th century about 1200 Stav-churches arose in Scandinavia. The Vikings were being christianized at that time, but also held on to their own beliefs. In this their ships played a central role, and so they constructed their churches as if they were ships. Only 30 of these extraordinary shaped churches remain. According to the WHC, "The church brings together traces of Celtic art, Viking traditions a