Karja Church, Saaremaa, Estonia

The towerless Gothic style church of St. Catherine in Karja is the smallest church in Saaremaa island. The church was built in the late 13th or early 14th century. Although small, it is the one of the most beautiful churches in Saaremaa. The architectural design of the church is simple: a two bayed nave, a choir and a vestry. It is the sculptural decor that makes the church a real jewel. Its portals, bosses and vaulting supports are decorated with High Gothic stone decor.

The most interesting detail in the church is a relief that was later set into the wall of the porch. It depicts the scene at Calvary with Mary and John mourning for Christ.

References:

saaremaa.ee

User Reviews

Konstanty Keda (4 years ago)
Great gothic church. We were lucky enough to meet one of the restauration workers and recieved a short tour around. For example woman and man with open mouth (near the roof in main nave) is for water drainage in snowy season. More information can also be found inside on information desk. Paintings on the cealing are originals.

Sergii Bietin (4 years ago)
Silence & peace...

Alexander Wagon (5 years ago)
Each and every bas relief there is worth a fair amount of time for contemplation.

Alexander Denisov (5 years ago)
Elderly church. Historical. Good views.

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