Svalbard Church

Svalbard Church is a rectangular red wooden building located near the center of Longyearbyen, designed in a traditional Nordic style with seating for about 140 people. The interior follows a simple, functional layout typical of Lutheran churches in the region.

The original building from 1921 was destroyed during World War II, after which architect Hans Magnus designed a replacement church. This new structure was completed in 1958 and has served as the main church ever since.

The church serves the community of Svalbard as a religious center and social gathering place where residents come together for services and events. It plays an important role in the local way of life in this remote island group.

The church is accessible daily around the clock and welcomes visitors without entrance fees. You should remove your outdoor shoes before entering, which is a standard practice here.

This church sits at about 78 degrees north latitude, making it one of the northernmost buildings of its kind. It preserves silver altar candlesticks and a baptismal bowl rescued from the destroyed predecessor church, keeping a material link to the past.

Location: Svalbard

Architects: Hans Magnus

Official opening: August 24, 1958

Website: http://svalbardkirke.no

GPS coordinates: 78.21977,15.61823

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:22