Fårö Church
Gotlands län
Fårö Church is situated almost at the center of Fårö island in northern Gotland and belongs to the Fårö parish. The church's oldest parts, including its tower and nave, date back to the early 14th century. Unlike many other Gotland churches, Fårö Church underwent significant changes in the 19th century when it was expanded with transepts to the north and south in 1858, doubling its size and giving it its current appearance. The church interior houses several notable artifacts, including a 14th-century baptismal font with minimal decoration, a processional crucifix from around 1400, and an altar piece from the late 17th century. Two unique paintings called "käutatavlor" depict dramatic seal hunts on drifting ice floes in 1603 and 1767, reflecting local Gutnish culture and history. The church's mechanical organ, originally built in 1860 and acquired from Väddö Church in 1875, features 12 stops and has been restored twice in the 20th century. The churchyard is also the final resting place of the renowned Swedish film director Ingmar Bergman, adding cultural significance to the site. Fårö Church serves as both a spiritual center and a cultural landmark, blending medieval architecture with local history and artistic heritage.
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Tip: The best time to visit Fårö Church is during the warmer months when the island is more accessible and the surrounding nature is vibrant. Visitors interested in local history and culture should take time to view the unique seal hunt paintings inside the church. It is advisable to check the Norra Gotlands pastorat website for service times and special events. No specific ticket is required for visiting the church, but respectful behavior is expected. Those wishing to visit the grave of Ingmar Bergman can do so in the churchyard. Booking ahead is not necessary, but guided tours may be available through local tourist services.
Interesting facts
- •Fårö Church contains two unique "käutatavlor" paintings depicting seal hunts on drifting ice floes in 1603 and 1767, illustrating local Gutnish traditions.
- •The church's baptismal font from the 14th century is notably simple compared to other Gotland fonts, lacking elaborate decoration.
- •Ingmar Bergman, one of Sweden's most famous film directors, is buried in the churchyard of Fårö Church.
- •The church organ was originally built in 1860 by Frans Andersson in Stockholm and was installed in Fårö Church in 1875 with a new facade designed by architect Per-Ulric Stenhammar.
History
Fårö Church's origins trace back to the early 1300s when its tower and nave were constructed.
In 1858, due to increasing congregation size, the church was significantly expanded with transepts added to the north and south, doubling its capacity and altering its medieval appearance.
In the mid-18th century, lightning struck the church tower, necessitating the construction of a new tower roof.
Over the centuries, the church has preserved important medieval artifacts such as its baptismal font and processional crucifix, while also integrating elements from later periods like the 17th-century altar piece and the 19th-century organ installation.
Place Guide
Tower and Naveearly 1300s
The oldest parts of Fårö Church, dating from the early 14th century, showcasing medieval stone architecture typical of Gotland churches.
Transepts Expansion1858
In 1858, the church was expanded with transepts to the north and south, doubling its size and giving it its current cruciform shape.
Baptismal Font14th century
A 14th-century baptismal font notable for its simplicity and lack of decoration, contrasting with other ornate fonts on Gotland.
Processional Crucifixc. 1400
A crucifix dating from around 1400 used during church processions, reflecting medieval religious art.
Altar Piecelate 1600s
The altar piece originates from the late 17th century, adding Baroque-era artistic elements to the church interior.
Seal Hunt Paintings (Käutatavlor)1618 and 1767
Two paintings depicting dramatic seal hunts on drifting ice floes in 1603 and 1767, highlighting local Gutnish history and culture.
Organ1860 (organ), 1875 (installation)
A mechanical organ with 12 stops, originally built in 1860 by Frans Andersson and installed in Fårö Church in 1875 with a new facade by architect Per-Ulric Stenhammar. Restored in the 1970s.
Contact
Phone: 0498-22 10 74
