Course - Architectural history, building knowledge and conservation theory - KUH6000
Architectural history, building knowledge and conservation theory
New from the academic year 2026/2027
About
About the course
Course content
The course gives an introduction to the emergence of conservation theories in the 19th century, as well as contemporary principles for architectural conservation. The courses main focus is the medieval churches, following the Church Conservation Program's main focus towards 2030. The course looks at the development of architectural elements and building construction. It also includes an introduction to architectural sculpture, and the possible symbolisms and meanings this carry. The course also includes a brief introduction to the other churches in the conservation strategy (1537-1850; 1850-2024). The course will be useful for those who are going to do a preliminary project for the restoration of a church, and for those who want to work with the dissemination of church history and cultural heritage.
The course can be taken as a stand-alone course, or together with KUH6002 and KUH6003. These courses are all approved as courses in NTNU's master's degree program in art history.
Learning outcome
Knowledge
After completing the course, the candidate should have:
- Basic knowledge of Norwegian church buildings from the 11th century to the present day, with particular expertise in the Middle Ages
- Knowledge of building techniques in wood and stone
- Knowledge of ground plans and different designs through the ages
- Knowledge of developments in conservation theory
Skills
- To be able to understand the significance of different conservation theories, and to understand how these may have influenced a building
- Knowledge of wooden churches (in particular stave churches) and stone churches, and of the special properties and challenges of the different materials and techniques
Learning methods and activities
Ten sessions. The first session is physical and includes an excursion to several medieval churches in Trøndelag. The remaining nine lectures are fully digital, but are taught in real time and the format alternates between short lectures, digital group work and conversations with guest lecturers. Relevant and updated literature is linked to each session/lecture.
Students are required to attend the on-site session and at least 6 of the 9 digital sessions.
Compulsory assignments
- Mandatory assignment
- 200-400 pages self-selected syllabus
- 70% oppmøte
Further on evaluation
The student must write a 4-5000 word essay on a self-chosen topic related to churches. If one wishes to write about a specific building, this is possible. The topic is decided upon in consultation with the lecturer. The student is expected to work on the essay throughout the semester, under the guidance of their teacher, and the essay should be submitted midway through the semester, so that the student may receive feedback. The assignment must then be revised and submitted again at the end of the semester. Assessment method: pass/fail. For those who wish to build competence in order to be able to do preliminary projects, the assignment/semester essay can be to do such a project.
Specific conditions
Admission to a programme of study is required:
- (EVUKIRKBEV)
Course materials
600 pages of syllabus
200-400 pages of self-chosen syllabus
Subject areas
- The History of Art
Contact information
Course coordinator
Department with academic responsibility
Department of Art and Media Studies