Petäjävesi Old Church
Unesco World Heritage

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Petäjävesi Old Church: A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Finland

The Petäjävesi Old Church, located in the small town of Petäjävesi in the Region of Central Finland, is a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site. This wooden church, built in the 18th century, is a testament to the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Finland.

History

The construction of the Petäjävesi Old Church began in 1763 under the guidance of the renowned Finnish church builder, Jaakko Klemetinpoika Leppänen. The church was completed in 1765 and has since stood as a symbol of Finnish craftsmanship and religious devotion.

The church was built to serve the local community, which was primarily engaged in agriculture and forestry. It provided a place of worship and a gathering space for the villagers, who played an active role in its construction. The church was designed in the traditional Finnish cruciform style, with a rectangular nave and a cross-shaped floor plan.

Over the years, the Petäjävesi Old Church has witnessed various renovations and additions. In the 19th century, a bell tower was added to the church, enhancing its visual appeal. However, the original wooden structure has been remarkably well-preserved, maintaining its authenticity and historical significance.

Current State

Today, the Petäjävesi Old Church stands as a living testament to Finnish architectural heritage. It continues to serve as a place of worship, hosting regular religious services and ceremonies. The church is also open to visitors, who can explore its unique features and experience its serene atmosphere.

The church's interior is adorned with beautiful wooden furnishings and decorations. The altarpiece, painted by Mikael Toppelius in the late 18th century, depicts the Last Supper and is a remarkable example of Finnish religious art. The pulpit, crafted by local artisans, showcases intricate woodcarvings and adds to the church's aesthetic appeal.

The surrounding landscape of the Petäjävesi Old Church is equally captivating. Nestled amidst lush greenery and overlooking Lake Kirrinjärvi, the church offers a picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy. The tranquil atmosphere and the harmonious blend of nature and architecture make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Efforts have been made to preserve and protect the Petäjävesi Old Church. It was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1994, recognizing its outstanding universal value. The Finnish government, along with local authorities, has implemented conservation measures to ensure the long-term preservation of this cultural treasure.

Visiting the Petäjävesi Old Church provides a unique opportunity to delve into Finland's history and experience the country's rich cultural heritage. Its architectural beauty, historical significance, and serene surroundings make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring Finland's past.

Videos from the area

Fly-by footage of Petäjävesi Old Church (Unesco Heritage Landmark)

Published: October 06, 2013
Length: 14:39 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Jere Malila

Here's some aerial footage from Petäjävesi Old Church. Go pro 2 with 1080P / 30 frames used. Check it out: http://www.petajavesi.fi/kirkko/ & http://whc.unesco.org/pg.cfm?cid=31&id_site=584...

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