Svalbard Church

Those exhausted from the extreme climes can seek respite in the Svalbard Church—which is highly visible despite being located just out of town. Getting there requires an uphill climb that is well worth it. This building dates from 1958, but there’s been a place of worship on this site since the early ’20s. It’s hard to mistake this lovely Norwegian-style red church as being anything else. Russians have built one even higher up, at a base, but it looks like the other military structures.

Svalbard Church welcomes one and all. It serves as a cozy community center, with tables and chairs set up for discussion as well as a separate area for prayer. It is also always open, serving as a safe space to duck into if you happen to be chased by a polar bear.

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