St. Olaf's Church in Tyrvää

St. Olaf's Church in Tyrvää

St. Olaf's Church in Tyrvää (Finnish: Tyrvään Pyhän Olavin kirkko), also known as the Old Church of Tyrvää, is a late medieval grey stone church constructed between approximately 1506 and 1516. Located in the village of Kalliala, Sastamala, on the shores of Lake Rautavesi, about three kilometers from the center of Vammala, the church is situated in one of Finland's national landscapes and forms part of a nationally significant built cultural environment.

While the church is not in regular use, it hosts weddings, baptisms, and summer services.

Historical Background

Origins

The church was originally built on an ancient site of worship, possibly previously occupied by two wooden churches. It suffered a fire in the early 17th century, necessitating a complete reconstruction of its interior. The church remained in use until the mid-19th century, but after the completion of the new Tyrvää Church in 1855, it was abandoned. Restoration efforts took place in the 20th century, including the repair of its shingle roof through volunteer work in the 1990s.

The 1997 Arson

Tragically, just three weeks after the completion of the roof repairs in 1997, an arsonist set the church ablaze, destroying its wooden interiors and artworks. The fire obliterated the 18th-century paintings by master painter Andreas Löfmark, which included depictions of the Apostles, the Passion of Christ, and the Last Judgment.

Reconstruction and Artistic Renewal

Between 1997 and 2003, the church was meticulously reconstructed by local volunteers using traditional methods and materials. Architect Ulla Rahola oversaw the design of the reconstruction. Two renowned Finnish artists, Kuutti Lavonen and Osmo Rauhala, were commissioned to create new interior paintings. They produced 101 artworks that blend contemporary themes with biblical narratives, breathing new life into the historic space.

The restoration process and the new artworks are documented in the bilingual book "St. Olaf's Church in Tyrvää – One Hundred and One Paintings", authored by Pirjo Silveri, Kuutti Lavonen, and Osmo Rauhala.

Architectural Features

St. Olaf's Church is a relatively small structure exemplifying late Gothic architecture. It is attributed to the master builders from Huittinen. The church features richly decorated gables, a southern porch (weapon room), and a northern sacristy. The walls are constructed from large, irregular stones, with cornerstones typical of late medieval churches in the Häme region.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The church's location is part of Finland's national landscapes and is recognized as a nationally significant built cultural environment. Its history reflects the broader narrative of Finnish ecclesiastical architecture and community resilience.

Location of St. Olaf's Church in Tyrvää

St. Olaf's Church is situated in the village of Kalliala, within the town of Sastamala, Finland. It lies approximately 3 kilometers from the center of Vammala, on the serene shores of Lake Rautavesi.

Address

Kallialantie 50, 38210 Sastamala, Finland

Coordinates:

• Latitude: 61°21′13″N

• Longitude: 22°56′29″E