Holy Cross Church of Hattula
Kanta-Häme
The Holy Cross Church, located in Parola, Hattula, is the oldest church in the former Tavastia province and a significant example of full Gothic style architecture in Finland. Constructed primarily of brick in the late 15th century, it stands out as one of the few medieval Finnish churches built this way, linking it architecturally to Häme Castle and possibly sharing builders from the Germanic regions. The church gained fame in the Middle Ages as a pilgrimage site, noted especially for its lime paint frescoes created by the same artists who decorated the St. Lars Church in Lohja. Its interior houses paintings dating from 1510 to 1922 and about 40 wooden sculptures from the early 14th century. The church's pulpit, dating back to 1550, is the oldest surviving pulpit in Finland, complemented by a second pulpit from the 17th century. Surrounding the church is a grey stone perimeter wall added in the 16th century, and a bell tower constructed in 1813 stands nearby. The church's unique brick construction, extensive medieval art, and its historical role as a pilgrimage destination make it a culturally and architecturally invaluable site.
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Tip: Visitors should consider visiting in spring or summer for better weather and accessibility. Booking guided tours in advance is recommended to fully appreciate the church's medieval frescoes and historical significance. The church offers accessible facilities including parking and restrooms. Discounts may be available for groups, seniors, and students. Checking the official website for opening hours and special events can enhance the visit.
Interesting facts
- •The church is one of the few medieval churches in Finland constructed almost entirely of brick rather than stone.
- •It features lime paint frescoes from the late Gothic period, painted by artists who also worked on the St. Lars Church in Lohja.
- •The pulpit dating to 1550 is the oldest surviving pulpit in Finland.
- •The church was a recognized pilgrimage destination in the Middle Ages, mentioned in Danish documents by Queen Margareta.
- •A grey stone wall from the 16th century surrounds the church, adding to its historic ambiance.
History
The first documented mention of a church in Hattula dates back to 1324.
The current brick church was likely completed in the late 15th century, between 1440 and 1490, during a period of prosperity linked to the nearby Häme Castle.
It replaced earlier wooden churches that existed since the early 13th century.
The church became a notable pilgrimage site in medieval times, recognized in Danish documents by Queen Margareta.
Over centuries, the church underwent additions such as the 16th-century stone wall and the 19th-century bell tower, preserving much of its medieval character.
Place Guide
Main Nave and AltarpieceLate 15th century
The central hall of the church, showcasing the late Gothic architectural style with three equally high aisles and symmetrical Latin cross floor plan. The altarpiece and surrounding frescoes depict biblical scenes and saints, reflecting the church’s medieval religious art heritage.
Medieval FrescoesCirca early 16th century
Lime paint frescoes covering the church walls, created by the same artists who decorated the St. Lars Church in Lohja. These frescoes illustrate religious scenes and figures such as Saint Mary, Saint Ursula, and Saint George and the dragon, representing significant medieval iconography.
Wooden Sculptures CollectionEarly 14th century
A collection of approximately 40 wooden sculptures dating to the first half of the 14th century, providing insight into medieval Finnish religious art and craftsmanship.
Oldest Pulpit in Finland1550
The church’s pulpit, dating from 1550, is the oldest surviving pulpit in Finland, representing early Protestant ecclesiastical furniture. A second pulpit built in the 17th century complements it.
Bell Tower1813
A separate bell tower built in 1813, located next to the church, adding to the site's historical layers and serving traditional liturgical functions.
Contact
Phone: 03 6311540
