Saint Olaf Medieval Church in Vammala Sastamala, Finland
St. Olaf church is believed to be built between 1506 and 1516. It was originally bult as a catholic church, but after reformation the congregation became Lutheran. In 18th century, church renovations were made , including shingle roof originally designed by Antti Piimänen. Most of the works were done by volunteers, including hand carved 17,000 aspen shingles for the roof. in 1997, the church was almost entirely destroyed by arson.
Again, more than 1000 volunteers helped rebuilt the church in the next 5 years. Present style of the church is very similar to the original medieval church, with a shingle roof. The interior was designed by the architect Ulla Rahola. The interior artwork was done by artists Kuutti Lavonen and Osmo Rauhala. As a whole, artwork of the church consists of 101 paintings. The themes that previously existed prior to the fire were utilized when new artworks was planned.
Here is a guide if you are planning to visit the city.
Some of the artwork from the church are posted below
Some pictures from the church
Trekking in Finnish Forest
- Prepare for trekking in Finnish forest- a short guide
Guide to trekking in Finnish forest