Paper short abstract:

This paper explores how pilgrim identity and behaviour are being modelled in the heritagised context of new Norwegian pilgrimage. We analyse how guidebooks and other media create expectations, influence practices, and frame religion as heritage.

Paper long abstract:

The Saint Olav Ways to Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim, Norway, are one of the most extensive projects of reintroducing pilgrimage in the Northern European countries. With all the hallmarks of 'Caminoised' pilgrimage, Saint Olav Ways epitomise a trend towards a heritagisation of religion, the process by which selected practices, places and stories from European religious history are being rediscovered and adapted to current needs, values, and concerns.

Attracting a broad variety of visitors, and explicitly catering to an audience unfamiliar with traditional pilgrimage, the Olav Ways become a stage where new pilgrim 'personae' are negotiated and rehearsed. This paper explores how pilgrim identity and behaviour are being modelled in the heritagised context of new Norwegian pilgrimage. We analyse how guidebooks and other media create expectations, influence practices, and frame religion as heritage - and how pilgrims narrate their experiences in response to the scenarios presented to them.