Södra Råda timmerkyrka

**South Råda log church - An important cultural monument with medieval origins

On the so-called Södra Råda old church site stood one of Sweden's best-preserved medieval timber churches, covered with paintings from the 14th and 15th centuries. It was a unique and priceless part of our and Europe's cultural heritage. However, in an arson attack in November 2001, the church burned to the ground. Today, an impressive reconstruction of the old church can be seen on this site, rebuilt according to contemporary methods.

Legend has it that......

Södra Råda old wooden church outside Gullspång came floating in the mists. Suddenly one morning it was just there. It is now known that the timber church, which was leveled in a pyromaniac attack in 2001, was built in the early 1300s.

**An important cultural monument

The medieval wooden church was considered one of the Nordic region's most important cultural monuments. The 14th-century paintings and the trefoil-shaped ceiling testify to great ambition and financial resources. In the 15th century, the nave was painted by Master Amund, one of the most important Swedish church painters of the late Middle Ages.

**Impressive reconstruction project has provided new knowledge

Over the course of a multi-year project, the approach to the reconstruction work was the same as when the church was first built almost seven hundred years ago. This reconstruction project has provided new knowledge about medieval building techniques that is of great benefit to heritage conservation nationally and internationally.

Sponsor with your shavings

You can be part of what remains of the reconstruction of the church by sponsoring a number of shavings of your choice. The reconstruction work that remains is to clad the façade of the church. There is also the possibility to write your greeting to the future on your chip!

Guided tour

On Saturdays and Sundays in summer, a guide is available to take you on a guided tour of the church. This gives you the opportunity to learn more about the medieval building techniques, the unique paintings and archaeological finds. Groups can book their own tour at the most convenient times, possible all year round.

**Good to know

You are welcome to wander around the old churchyard on your own all year round and enjoy the permanent open-air exhibitions. Large parts of the churchyard are graveled and in some places have a slightly uneven surface. There is a toilet for the disabled on site. The surroundings are beautiful and invite you to take a break, so feel free to bring your own picnic basket.