Places with a story
Hov kirke
Hov kirke is a timber church whose decoration brings local artistic skill into the religious history of Søndre Land. Its present appearance reflects both eighteenth-century craftsmanship and later efforts to recover older colours.
About the place1
The church stands at a long-established religious site in Hov. Its cross-shaped timber building and central spire are a familiar part of the municipality's settlement landscape. Inside, carved wood appears throughout the altarpiece, pulpit, font and screen, making the furnishings particularly important to an understanding of the building.
History and local connections1
The present church was consecrated on 12 September 1781. A major alteration in 1871 changed the tower and covered colourful carvings with white and gold paint. In 1920 the painter and conservator Domenico Erdmann removed overpainting from important furnishings and introduced the grey and blue colour scheme. Further restoration preceded the church's bicentenary reopening in 1981.
What to look for1
The altar painting is by local artist Peder Aadnes. Its composition follows an earlier depiction of the descent from the cross, showing how a rural church could connect local workmanship with wider European art. Observe the painted angels, marbled surfaces and abundant carving around it. The interior records several periods rather than one completely untouched original scheme.
Plan your visit12
Hov kirke remains part of the active parish. Use the church office's current calendar to plan around acts of worship and ceremonies, and ask about interior access before making a special trip to see the art. The parish history page explains the restorations in detail, so it is useful preparation for noticing which parts belong to different phases.
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