Norwegian Church Arts Centre

The iconic Norwegian Church presiding over Cardiff Bay is one of the city’s most unique historic buildings and an important centre of local arts and culture. Built in 1868 to serve the Norwegian merchant fleet, who at the time used Cardiff as one of their major centers of operations, the Norwegian Church was donated by the Marquis of Bute to honor the city’s foreign tradesmen.  Formerly stood on the grounds of the Wales Millennium Centre, the building was dismantled in 1987, but reconstructed in its current location in 1992.

No longer a place of worship, the church is now managed by the Cardiff County Council and home to the Norwegian Church Arts Centre, featuring a café, art gallery and outdoor terrace. Exhibition space is devoted to homegrown artists, with the Dahl Gallery, named after legendary children’s author, Roald Dahl, who was born in the city and baptized in the church, hosting a series of temporary art and photography exhibitions showcasing local talent. Art workshops, lectures and live music gigs are also held regularly at the venue.