Churches of Gotland

The almost 100 churches of Gotland are a main attraction for tourists. The island goes to painstaking effort to restore the between 600 and 900 year old buildings to their original beauty which means among other things replastering the walls and painting them with the same lime stone, a rare skill in the world. I know because I was involved in the reconstruction of one old church.

The churches were all constructed so the tower is on the west side. If you ever are lost on the island just find a church to get your directions straight again. Usually you can see their peaks from miles away. A drive down any road will lead you to one soon enough.


While they may look similar on the outside, a glance inside will reveal a different character to each one. Some have very ornate paintings that have been or are being restored.


While others contain very detailed wood carved statues each unique in it’s characterization of the saints.


The largest church on the island outside of Visby is the Lao church. on the other side of the island. It’s extremely beautiful in it’s simplicity. When I lived nearby I would spend much time singing in the 12 second echo of the church. It’s worth a special trip to see and experience it.

/text Daniel Behr, foto Bernt Enderborg