Magnus Cathedral, Cathedral ruins in Kirkjubøur, Faroe Islands
Magnus Cathedral is an unfinished church ruin made of basalt in Kirkjubøur, Faroe Islands, with walls that reach nearly nine meters in height. The Gothic window openings and massive stone blocks show the original intention to create a monumental medieval structure.
Bishop Erlendur began construction in the late 13th century when the Faroe Islands belonged to the Norwegian Archdiocese of Nidaros. The project was abandoned during the Reformation period, leaving the church without a roof and without use.
The name honors Magnus Erlendsson, a Norwegian saint whose veneration spread across the North Atlantic. The ruin towers over the village today, reminding visitors of a time when the Catholic Church sought to establish its presence in these remote islands.
The site is freely accessible and sits right at the village center of Kirkjubøur, just steps from other historical buildings. The walls are visible in all weather, though wind and rain call for weatherproof clothing during the short walk around.
Inside a wall niche rests a sealed lead box holding remains of Thorlak, an Icelandic saint. This reliquary is the only known example associated with him anywhere in the world.
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