Asikkala Old Church
Päijät-Häme
Asikkala Old Church, completed in 1880 and designed by architect Georg Wilenius, is the main church of the Asikkala Evangelical Lutheran parish in Finland. It replaced an earlier wooden cruciform church built likely in the 1660s, which was one of the first wooden cross churches in Finland. The church is a brick long church with a prominent end tower, featuring Gothic Revival style with Romanesque details and an interior typical of Neo-Gothic design. The nave is divided into three aisles supported by wooden pillars, and the ceiling is made of folded wooden boards. The church stands on Makasiininmäki hill and has a seating capacity of about 1,300. Its 54-meter-high tower cross is a local landmark. The church organ, built in 1902 by the Jurva organ factory, contains 32 stops. Originally heated by four stoves, the church now uses underfloor warm air heating. The former wooden church was demolished in 1892, but its octagonal bell tower base survives as the gatehouse of the Asikkala cemetery. Asikkala parish itself dates back to the 16th century and became independent from Hollola in 1848. The church remains a significant religious and cultural site in the region.
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Tip: The best time to visit Asikkala Old Church is during the warmer months when the surrounding area is accessible and pleasant for walking. Visitors interested in history and architecture should consider checking opening hours in advance via the parish website or phone, as services and events may limit access. While no specific ticket is required, donations are appreciated. The church is accessible by local transport and has parking nearby. Guided tours may be available through the parish office.
Interesting facts
- •The church organ built in 1902 by the Jurva organ factory has 32 stops, making it a notable instrument in the region.
- •The church's brick walls were constructed using approximately one million bricks, built up to the eaves in a record 35 days.
- •The octagonal bell tower base of the original wooden church now serves as the gatehouse to Asikkala cemetery.
- •The church tower's cross reaches 54 meters high, making it a prominent landmark in the area.
History
Asikkala parish was first mentioned in 1548 as a chapel under Hollola, with its own priest established in the 17th century.
The first known wooden church, a cruciform structure, was likely built in the 1660s and served the community until it was replaced by the current brick church in 1880.
The new church was designed by Georg Wilenius and constructed on Makasiininmäki hill starting in 1878, with the building consecrated in October 1880.
The wooden church was dismantled in 1892, but its bell tower's base remains as part of the cemetery gate.
The parish became independent from Hollola in 1848, reflecting growth in population and ecclesiastical needs.
Place Guide
Main Nave and Aisles1880
The church's interior is divided into three aisles by wooden pillars supporting the galleries. The central nave is covered by a folded wooden ceiling, typical of Neo-Gothic architecture, creating an airy and solemn atmosphere.
Church Organ1902
Built in 1902 by the Jurva organ factory, the organ features 32 stops and is an important musical instrument for church services and concerts.
Bell Tower Basecirca 1660s
The octagonal base of the original wooden church's bell tower was preserved and repurposed as the gatehouse for the Asikkala cemetery, symbolizing the parish's historical continuity.
Contact
Phone: 03 8766200
