The association ACSOW

The association for the Route of St. Olav Ways (ACSOW) is an association of members based on the democratic values of the European Cultural Routes.

The main purpose for ACSOW is to manage the status as a European Cultural Route. By facilitating for pilgrimage on the old thoroughfares towards the Cathedral of Nidaros and Trondheim, the association shall promote the common European heritage represented through the Route of St. Olav Ways.

Furthermore, ACSOW will facilitate projects, publications, research and activities coherent with the St. Olav heritage in general. ACSOW will focus especially on pilgrimage along the St. Olav Ways.

The certification “Cultural Route of the Council of Europe” is a guarantee of excellence. The networks implement innovative activities and projects pertaining to the following fields of action: co-operation in research and development; enhancement of memory, history and European heritage; cultural and educational exchanges for young Europeans; contemporary cultural and artistic practice; cultural tourism and sustainable cultural development.

The executive board

In the period 2024 – 2026, the executive board and administration of ACSOW consist of the following: 

  • President: Janke Rasmussen, pilegrimsenter Dale-Gudbrand/Gudbrandsdalsmusea AS, Norway.
  • Vice president: Miika Ahola, Olofsleder i Finland, Finland.
  • Board member: Cathrine Stangebye Engebretsen, Vestfold fylkeskommune, Norge
  • Board member: Kjersti Utne, Trondheim kommune, Norway.
  • Board member: Jenny Hall, Östersunds kommun, Sweden.
  • Board member: Mikkel von Seelen, Udvikling Hærvejen, Denmark. 
  • Board member: Johan Norling, Västkuststiftelsen, Sweden.

ACSOW has a written agreement with the National pilgrim centre of Norway, which serve the function as route management and administration. 

  • Hans Morten Løvrød, National pilgrim centre, Norway (route manager). 
  • Guro Berge Vistad, National pilgrim centre, Norway (administration).