Last updated on April 1st, 2020

A visit to Rolfstorp Church

Although it has connections to my family, I have not been to the church in Rolfstorp before.

In many ways it is like so many other Swedish churches, simple Romanesque architecture, an interior palate of blue and white; simple spaces with open ceilings, a few elaborate carvings, and sparkling chandeliers.

An elaborately carved altar and pulpit

Much of the church interior only dates back to an early nineteenth century remodel. However, the elaborate altar and pulpit were carved in 1655 when this place was part of Denmark.

(Apparently everyone has rosy cheeks in Sweden!)

An ancient baptismal font

The baptismal font is older, likely carved in the 12th or 13th century. It is still used for family baptisms.

Other remnants of the past linger in hidden corners

Some elements of this church have been less valued. Over time those elements have been obscured, replaced, or modified.

Among these is the 1950’s era organ that incorporates parts of an earlier organ.

Similarly, medieval paintings were covered over at some point. A few were recovered when the church was renovated in 1962. However, originally the interior would have been covered with these paintings as they were in Denmark’s painted churches.