About us
The foundation Olav Püha Fond was founded in 2023 on a private initiative.
Its purpose is to study and preserve the archaeological and architectural heritage of Estonia along the historical waterways that ran eastward from Scandinavia, marked by objects related to the cult of the Norwegian king Olav II Haraldsson, known as St. Olav. With this, the foundation contributes to Estonian identity studies and contributes to a stronger connection between Estonia and Norway through the legacy of St. Olav.
As a result of the activities of the foundation's members, Estonia will be a member of the Council of Europe's historical cultural routes network - Route of Saint Olav Ways from 2024. Our task is to coordinate the establishment of the Olaviteede in Estonia and to connect the cultural trails here with the Nordic Olaviteede network. In addition, the foundation organizes conferences, issues publications, deals with the popularization of Estonia's past history and places related to Saint Olav, and
promotes cultural tourism in coastal regions of Estonia.
Vision
Estonia is recognized as a part of the sea route network of the Baltic Sea region both in the Viking and Late Antiquity times. Through the Olavitee, Scandinavians interested in cultural history and local wanderlust can take part.
Estonian and Norwegian private entrepreneurs have contributed to the rise of Estonians' self-awareness and made it possible to make visible cultural ties that were little known until now.
Cooperation
We cooperate closely with Tallinn University, University of Tartu, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Norwegian National Pilgrimage Center and Royal Norwegian Embassy in Estonia, Estonian Maritime Museum, Läänemaa Museums and Osiliana, Padis Monastery, Heritage Protection Board and Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church.
