The old manor house at Bårdshaug in Norway is said to be haunted by some mysterious women that sometimes appear in the house, now operating as a hotel. Who are these female spirits lingering, and what do they want?
It is often said that every respectable manor and old house comes with a ghost of its own, 30 minutes from Trondheim city in Norway. At Bårdshaug Manor in Orkanger, that saying seems to hold true. The elegant estate, built in 1860, once served as the home of Christian Thams, a remarkable figure in Norwegian history known as an architect, minister, landowner, and consul.
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Today the manor house from 1860 operates as a hotel, but many believe it has never truly been left unguarded.
The History of the Manor House
Bårdshaug Gård was originally built in 1860, but it was only after Christian Thams took over the property in 1890 that the farm was transformed into a larger manor house. The architecture at Bårdshaug Herregård is characterized by an interesting interplay of different styles, from Norse to Louis-seize style. The interior design features elements from all over the world.
Christian Thams, who was an important industrialist and entrepreneur. Thams was not only known for his work with industrial development and export, but also for his connections with princes, royalty, and working people.
He met his future wife, the Dutch-born Baroness Sarah Sybille Francoise Atoinette Elènore Baronesse de Spengler , while studying in Switzerland. They married in 1886 when he was 19 and she was 18. Baroness de Spengler was an artistic and modern woman with an interest in singing and theatre, and she played a central role in the many cultural events held at Bårdshaug Manor. She was known for her involvement in art and culture, and her presence was an important element in the social life of the estate.
Two Ladies Who Never Left
Strange things happen inside of this hotel. The staff talk about doors locking themselves and seeing the shape of people inside of the old rooms.
Over the years, guests have shared quiet but persistent reports of two female figures appearing within the manor. Their identities remain unknown, yet they are spoken of with familiarity rather than fear. One of the most intriguing stories comes from children who have claimed to speak with a woman dressed in a red gown in the cellar. These encounters are described as calm and natural, as if the presence was entirely at ease with being seen.
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Staff members at Bårdshaug Manor tend to agree that the spirits mean no harm. Instead, they believe the women are bound to the house out of loyalty and care, lingering to watch over the building and those who pass through it. Their appearances are not accompanied by threats or violence, only a sense of being quietly observed.
A Place Acknowledged by the Dead
The manor’s reputation has reached beyond local whispers and many paranormal researchers have tried to find the answers to the legends. The well known Norwegian television series Åndenes Makt (The Power of Spirits) has also paid a visit to Bårdshaug, drawn by the long standing tales of unexplained activity and lingering presences. While no definitive answers were given, the visit only strengthened the belief that something remains behind the walls of the old estate.
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