A few hundred years ago, Jelsa was an important center in Ryfylke, serving as an intellectual hub and a central trading post. Several fjords converge here, making the coastal town of Jelsa a vital junction, with the sea route being the primary means of access to and from the region. In the 19th century, Jelsa boasted numerous craftsmen, including bakers, shoemakers, blacksmiths, goldsmiths, and an inn. Even in the early 17th century, a musician was mentioned in this coastal town! To this day, the beautiful Jelsa Church and the school museum stand as a testament to Jelsa's significance in the 17th and 18th centuries.
By following the cultural heritage trail through the town center, you can learn more about this coastal community from that era right up to the present day. You'll hear how Jelsa Church was built around the original stave church, learn about turbulent pastoral elections, and gain insight into why the schoolhouse was constructed in Jelsa. You'll also discover the story of when electricity first arrived in Jelsa, hear about the courting benches installed in the area, and enjoy historical melodies from the coastal town. Local storytellers bring these histories to life.
Script: Tore Thorsen, Øystein Haga, Ruth Haga I Narrators: Tore Thorsen, Øystein Haga, Ruth Haga, Cecilie Jelsa, Maren Landsnes I Music: Folk Music Archive/Ryfylke Museum I Film: Borghild Nærheim and Andreas Lange/Vandre Film I Historical Basis: Jelsa: Farms and People
