Stelmužė church, Wooden church in Stelmužė, Lithuania
Stelmužė church is a wooden religious building in Lithuania that stands on elevated ground with traditional Lithuanian architecture, steep roofs, and ornate decorations throughout. The structure is characterized by substantial timber walls that work together with the roof framework to create a unified and enduring form.
The building was constructed in 1650 and remains the oldest wooden church in Lithuania, built without metal fasteners or mechanical saws. Traditional joining techniques gave the structure the strength to survive and function across the centuries.
The interior displays religious artworks and altars that reflect the spiritual traditions of the local community. Visitors experience how people continue to gather here for worship and maintain these practices today.
The church opens for religious services and guided visits, accessible through a marked path from the main village road near the Stelmužė Oak. Visitors should dress respectfully and be mindful of ongoing religious activities when entering.
The building was constructed without metal nails or saws, using hand-craft techniques to join timber pieces together. This iron-free construction is remarkable for its longevity and demonstrates the skill of traditional Lithuanian builders.
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