Käina Church

Käina Church is the stone ruins of a medieval building that was constructed between the 15th and 16th centuries in the center of Käina village on Hiiumaa island. The original walls still stand and reveal the solid masonry techniques used in its construction.

The building was constructed in the late medieval period and became the primary religious center of Hiiumaa for centuries. It was destroyed in 1941 during World War II, leaving only the stone walls that survive to the present day.

The sun cross above the entrance and relief-carved tombstones from the 17th century reflect the religious art traditions of Estonian communities. These details show how local craftspeople expressed their faith through stone carving.

The ruins are located at Hiiu mnt 20a in Käina village and are freely accessible to visitors. You can view the stone walls during daylight hours, but be mindful of uneven ground and the age of the remaining structures.

Before its destruction, the building housed an organ built by the father of Estonian composer Rudolf Tobias. This connection to Estonia's classical music history adds a cultural dimension that many visitors overlook when viewing the ruins.

Location: Hiiumaa Rural Municipality

GPS coordinates: 58.82891,22.77610

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:40