Ulvila Church, Ulvila, Finland

The Ulvila Church, dedicated to St. Olaf, is one of the most significant medieval buildings in Finland. The first church was built probably in 13th century to Liikistö, which was a local trade centre. According old documents the graveyard around the church was consecrated in 1347 and church was burnt badly in 1429. Historians believe that the present stone church was built after that between 1495-1510.

There are several medieval and newer artefacts inside the church, for example crucifix and statue of St. Olaf from the 1430s and communion cup from the end of Middle Ages.

The Church has been renovated several times. During the latest renovation in 2005 archaeologists found the biggest medieval coin treasure in Finland. It was buried near the sacristy stone wall in 1390s and included 1476 silver coins.

User Reviews

Jaana Rantanen (11 months ago)
Beautiful old church. The Christmas Eve devotional was attended in the evening. The sea of candles in the hero's graves is a wonderful sight.

Tiia (16 months ago)
A really beautiful old stone church in the middle of a well-kept cemetery.

Jouni Mäkelä (2 years ago)
Historical church

Ilkka Lainema (3 years ago)
Fine, old stone church. A prosperous region, when such was achieved half a millennium ago!

Sari Marttila (3 years ago)
An insanely wonderful and atmospheric church with a touch of history.

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The Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere is one of the oldest churches of Rome. The basic floor plan and wall structure of the church date back to the 340s, and much of the structure to 1140-43. The first sanctuary was built in 221 and 227 by Pope Callixtus I and later completed by Pope Julius I.

The inscription on the episcopal throne states that this is the first church in Rome dedicated to Mary, mother of Jesus, although some claim that privilege belongs to the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore. A Christian house-church was founded here about 220 by Pope Saint Callixtus I (217-222) on the site of the Taberna meritoria, a refuge for retired soldiers. The area was made available for Christian use by Emperor Alexander Severus when he settled a dispute between the Christians and tavern-keepers.

The church underwent two restorations in the fifth and eighth centuries and in 1140-43 it was re-erected on its old foundations under Pope Innocent II.

Ulvila Church

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