Habo Church
Jönköpings län
Habo Church, located in Jönköping County, Sweden, is a remarkable wooden church built originally in 1680 and remodeled extensively in 1723 to its present basilica form. Its architecture is unique, resembling a cathedral with a high central nave flanked by two lower aisles, all constructed entirely from timber. The church interior is famously adorned with extensive paintings completed between 1741 and 1743 by local artists Johan Kinnerius and Johan Christian Peterson, illustrating Martin Luther's catechism, which visually narrates the core Christian teachings. The church contains significant medieval artifacts such as a 14th-century sandstone altar and a 13th-century baptismal font. Its organ facade dates back to 1736, crafted by Johan Niclas Cahman, with subsequent restorations preserving its historical character. Known locally as the "Wooden Cathedral Near Vättern," Habo Church stands out for its intricate wooden architecture and rich historical and cultural heritage. It was featured on Swedish postage stamps in 2002 as part of a series celebrating romantic churches at Christmastime, highlighting its cultural significance.
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Tip: The best time to visit Habo Church is from May to September when it is open daily with extended hours. Guided tours are available by appointment and highly recommended to fully appreciate the detailed interior paintings and historical artifacts. The church closes on major holidays such as Midsummer's Eve and Christmas. Visitors are advised to check opening hours in advance and consider visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds. Discounts may be available for groups or seniors upon inquiry.
Interesting facts
- •Habo Church is nicknamed the 'Wooden Cathedral Near Vättern' due to its unique cathedral-like wooden architecture.
- •Its interior paintings illustrate Martin Luther's catechism, a rare thematic decoration in churches.
- •The church was featured on a Swedish postage stamp series in 2002 highlighting romantic churches at Christmastime.
- •The sandstone altar dates back to the 14th century, and the baptismal font is from the late 13th century.
- •The church organ facade, crafted in 1736, has been preserved and restored multiple times.
History
A church has existed at the Habo site since the late 13th century, with the current wooden structure's oldest part being a stone sacristy from an earlier church.
The present church was originally built in 1680 and underwent a significant transformation in 1723 under builder Sven Nilsson Swan, gaining its basilica form with a tower and polygonal choir.
Additional modifications occurred in the 19th and 20th centuries, including roofing changes, construction of porches, and structural reinforcements.
The interior paintings were completed in the early 1740s, and the church has preserved medieval furnishings like the sandstone altar and baptismal font.
The bell tower, built in 1760, houses three bells cast in the mid-18th century.
Place Guide
The Basilica Structure1723
Habo Church is built in the form of a basilica with a high central nave and two lower side aisles, all constructed of timber, giving it a cathedral-like appearance unique among wooden churches.
Interior Paintings1741-1743
The church interior walls, galleries, and ceiling are covered with paintings by Johan Kinnerius and Johan Christian Peterson from 1741-1743, illustrating the Ten Commandments, the Apostles' Creed, the Lord's Prayer, and key Lutheran sacraments and blessings.
Medieval Altar and Baptismal Font13th and 14th centuries
The sandstone altar dates from the 14th century and includes a relic discovered during the 1716 renovation. The baptismal font, made of sandstone, dates to the late 13th century and was restored to use in 1948.
Organ and Organ Loft1736
The organ facade on the western gallery was built in 1736 by Johan Niclas Cahman and decorated by Magnus Ullberg Johansson. The organ has been updated but retains the historic facade and is complemented by a choir organ from 1981.
Bell Tower1760
The separate bell tower, built in 1760, houses three church bells cast by Elias Fries Thoresson between 1756 and 1760. The church tower itself contains no bells.
Contact
Phone: 036-496 00
