Reigi Church, Stone church monument in Pihla, Estonia
Reigi Church is a stone building in Pihla with a tall steeple topped by a lily ornament representing the Ungern-Sternberg family coat of arms. The structure has a rectangular layout with rows of windows that give it a simple yet solid appearance.
Construction took place between 1800 and 1802, replacing a wooden church that dated to the 1690s. A major renovation occurred in 1899 that gave the structure its present form.
The church holds artworks donated by survivors of shipwrecks that occurred off the northwest coast of Hiiumaa over the centuries. These pieces reflect both the maritime dangers people faced and their gratitude for survival.
The church is located in Kõrgessaare and opens for Sunday worship services. For visits outside regular service times, advance contact with the congregation is necessary to arrange access.
The interior creates an optical illusion similar to standing beneath an inverted boat, which alters spatial perception in an unexpected way. This unusual experience results from the distinctive vault shape and roof construction.
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