Torpo Stave Church is a medieval wooden church located in the village of Torpo in the county of Hordaland, Norway. It was originally built around 1192 AD, making it one of the oldest stave churches in the country. The church is known for its unique architectural features, such as its characteristic pointed roof and intricate carvings, which showcase the craftsmanship of the time.
Note the iconography has a first millenium christian appearance. Pantocrator has the four gospel writers depicted.
Beginning with Saint Irenaeus (ca. 125 – ca. 202) and also in the writings of Saint Jerome (ca. 347-420) and Saint Augustine (354-430), the four creatures of Ezekiel’s vision were understood to symbolize the four evangelists, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.
St. Matthew, a divine man;
St. Mark, a winged lion;
St. Luke, a winged ox; and
St. John, a rising eagle.
