The Sodankylä Old Church, standing by the cemetery in a beautiful little wood on the banks of the River Kitinen, is one of Finland’s oldest preserved wooden churches.
Sodankylä Old Church
The old church is just a few steps away from the centre of Sodankylä. Whether you are using public transport or travelling by car, the old church is definitely worth seeing and experiencing. The church is quite small, dark and made of wood, with a glorious tar scent. It stands peacefully surrounded by its own cemetery on the banks of the River Kitinen.
The old church is not open for visitors at the current time. However, it is still worth stopping by to admire it from the outside, as the wooden building is a delightful, special sight.
The church was built in 1689 for the people of central Lapland. The building was restored in 1926 and between 1992 and 1995 the National Board of Antiquities repaired the wooden shingle roof and the surface board work. The old church has retained its authentic character and feeling through the centuries. In the summer prayers are held in the church, and it is a popular wedding venue.