Forshem kyrka

The Only Pilgrimage Church of Its Kind in the Nordic Region

The church is built of sandstone, with the oldest part being the nave, dating from the mid-12th century. The most significant alterations were made in the 1760s, when transepts were added. The church has undergone several restorations, including one in 1939 when 17th-century wall and ceiling paintings were discovered beneath layers of whitewash.

Archaeological finds of decorated wooden remains suggest that an earlier stave church may once have stood on the site.

The original chancel was already demolished in the 13th century and replaced with a new structure featuring rib vaults supported by columns, likely inspired by Skara Cathedral or the Cistercian monastery church at Varnhem.

Forshem Church is unique in the Nordic region as the only church dedicated to the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. A Latin inscription conveying this dedication is carved on one of the Romanesque reliefs. Three of the reliefs depict scenes from the Passion of Christ and may originally have formed part of a sculpted sarcophagus used in liturgical passion plays, symbolising Christ’s tomb. In times when pilgrimage to Jerusalem was dangerous or impossible, Forshem may have served as a substitute pilgrimage site.

Several theories exist regarding the church’s founder, and it has even been suggested that answers may lie in the Vatican Secret Archives in Rome. A scholarly collaboration has been initiated between the Diocese of Skara Historical Society and the Vatican concerning the early ecclesiastical history of the region.

The church was modified several times over the centuries. The transepts added in 1765 were inaugurated on Midsummer’s Eve of that year. According to local tradition, the building material was taken from the now-lost Forsholm Castle, although this has not been confirmed.

The Latin inscription reads:

"ISTA ECCLESIA SIT IN HONORE DOMINI NOSTRI IHESU CHRISTI ET SANCTI SEPULCRI"

Translated: "This church is dedicated to the honour of our Lord Jesus Christ and the Holy Sepulchre."

On the south side of the church are depictions of St. Martin and St. Nicholas, who served as patrons of pilgrims and the church itself. One of the reliefs contains the entire Latin alphabet. The stone carvings are unique, with comparable examples only found in Skara Cathedral, possibly carved by the so-called Skara master, Scarensis. None of the reliefs remain in their original positions.

The interior also contains a large 14th-century triumphal crucifix, a medieval chasuble, two bridal pews, and valuable silver artefacts. The richly decorated vault paintings were uncovered during the 1912 restoration and date from the early 17th century, likely painted by Gullick Gullicksson of the Early Läckö School.

Across the road lies a stone museum featuring lily stones and medieval grave slabs. A pilgrimage route also connects Forshem and Husaby.

The Church Guide app provides additional information about the churches in the region and can also be used as a guide during your visit. Download it here.

You can reach Forshem Church by taking the Kinnekulle Line operated by Västtågen and getting off at Forshem Station. From there, it is approximately a 350-metre walk to the church.

Journey planning is available through the Västtrafik website or the Västtrafik To Go app.