Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
stone church, with its richly decorated interior, is worth a quick stop as you
pass through town.
Cost and Hours:
Free entry but donation requested, daily 10:00-20:00 but
often closed for services and off-season, good posted English info inside, 5-kr
English brochure, just off the main road—look for red steeple, WC in grave-
yard, fresh goodies at bakery across the street.
Visiting the Church:
The soapstone core of the church dates from about
1250, but the wooden bell tower and entry porch were likely built around
1600. As you enter, on the left you'll see a tall, elevated platform with seating,
surrounded by a wooden grill. Nicknamed a “birdcage” for the feathery fash-
ions worn by the ladies of the time, this high-profile pew—three steps high-
er than the pulpit—was built in the late-17th century by a wealthy parishion-
er. The beautifully painted pulpit, decorated with faded images of the four
evangelists, dates from the 13th century. In the chancel (altar area), restor-
ers have uncovered frescoes from three different time periods: the 14th, 16th,
and 17th centuries. Most of the ones you see here were likely created around
the year 1500. The crucifix high over the pews, carved around 1200, predates
the church, as does the old bench (with lots of runic carvings)—making them
more than eight centuries old.
