Seljumannamesse at Selja
Seljumannamesse – 4 - 8 July 2026.General information
Seljumannamesse is an annual celebration commemorating Saint Sunniva and the Holy Men of Selja, with roots dating back to some of Norway’s oldest Christian traditions. The event takes place on the historic island of Selja, an important pilgrimage destination for centuries.
Today, Seljumannamesse is marked by church services and liturgies from different Christian traditions, held among the atmospheric ruins of the monastery complex on Selja. The celebration offers a unique experience where history, culture, and faith come together in spectacular coastal surroundings.
The legend of Saint Sunniva laid the foundation for the establishment of the Christian Church in Norway. Throughout the Middle Ages, the cult of Saint Sunniva made Selja an important pilgrimage destination. Selja served as the episcopal seat of Western Norway from 1068 to 1170, and around 1090 English Benedictine monks founded Norway’s first monastery here.
Today, Seljumannamesse is still celebrated in accordance with centuries-old traditions on the Sunday closest to Saint Sunniva’s feast day.
In connection with the celebration, visitors can also enjoy concerts, guided tours of the monastery ruins, and lectures on topics related to the history and cultural heritage of Selja.
Today, Seljumannamesse is marked by church services and liturgies from different Christian traditions, held among the atmospheric ruins of the monastery complex on Selja. The celebration offers a unique experience where history, culture, and faith come together in spectacular coastal surroundings.
The legend of Saint Sunniva laid the foundation for the establishment of the Christian Church in Norway. Throughout the Middle Ages, the cult of Saint Sunniva made Selja an important pilgrimage destination. Selja served as the episcopal seat of Western Norway from 1068 to 1170, and around 1090 English Benedictine monks founded Norway’s first monastery here.
Today, Seljumannamesse is still celebrated in accordance with centuries-old traditions on the Sunday closest to Saint Sunniva’s feast day.
In connection with the celebration, visitors can also enjoy concerts, guided tours of the monastery ruins, and lectures on topics related to the history and cultural heritage of Selja.
Attributes
- Summer