Saint Olav is the patron saint of Norway and the first Scandinavian saint. His name was Olav II Haraldsson and was King of Norway (r. 1015-1028). At a young age he journeyed on Viking raids to the Baltic and England. He converted to Christianity early in his youth and in 1010 he was baptised in Rouen. Saint Olav lost his life at the battle of Stiklestad, on 29 July 1030 in an attempt to win back his kingdom. He is considered the one who brought Christianity in Norway, although the methods he used were coercion and violence. Pilgrimage to the shrine of St Olav began as early as 1032 after rumours had spread about the miracles he performed. After his canonisation by the Pope, his followers erected the magnificent Nidaros Cathedral over his burial place. Today, Nidaros Cathedral is the final destination of St Olav's pilgrimage route to Trondheim.
"This winter (A.D. 1031) many in the Throndhjem land began to declare that Olaf was in reality a holy man, and his sanctity was confirmed by many miracles. Many began to make promises and prayers to King Olaf in the matter in which they thought they required help, and many found great benefit from these invocations. Some in respect for health, other of a journey, or other circumstances in which such help seemed needful".
Snorri Sturluson, Icelandic historian and poet, Heimskringla, 13th c.
The Varangian Imperial Guard, the Byzantine Emperor's bodyguards, had their own church in Constantinople, in which to worship. The church was dedicated to St Mary of the Varangians and St Olav. A shrine depicting the two holy figures was situated behind the chancel of the church of Hagia Sophia in Constantinople. The most precious relic was the miraculous sword of St Olav.