The Old Church in Keuruu

The third church of the Keuruu parish, now known as the Old Church, was consecrated in 1758.

The architect and master builder during the construction years 1756–59 was Antti Antinpoika Hakola (1709–1778), a self-taught church builder from South Ostrobothnia. The church has been preserved in its original form to a considerable extent.

The paintings in the church were mainly created by Johan Tilén (1743–1806), a master painter from Turku. The two-part altarpiece dates from 1782.

The church’s painted decoration was completed between 1782 and 1785.

The continuous vaulting of the church hall gives the interior the appearance of a cruciform church. The overall appearance of the interior, with its fu ishings and delicate Rococo-style painted decorations, dates from the late 18th century.

The immediate surroundings of Keuruu’s old church include Highway 23, the vicarage and its outbuildings – which were listed under the 1972 Building Protection Act – on the other side of the road, and the railway station, built in 1897.

On Kippavuori hill, to the west of the church, stands a new church built from Keuruu brick, designed by architect Theodor Granstedt and completed in 1892.

The stone wall surrounding the churchyard is interrupted by gatehouses, or passageways. These were used, for example, as changing rooms after a long walk to church.

The church is also a popular venue for weddings

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