Friels kyrka
Lidköping
The earliest known structure on the site of Friel Church dates from around the 12th century. It originally consisted of a nave with a smaller, straight-ended chancel. The baptismal font belongs to this earliest phase of the church and is made of sandstone with relief decoration, dating from the 12th century.
The First Church Building
The medieval church’s walls still remain today, built of granite with sandstone used at the corners. The chancel was originally vaulted, and there is also evidence suggesting that the nave may have had vaulting as well.
A wooden porch was later added in front of the southern entrance. This was probably replaced by a masonry porch during the 18th century. A sacristy was built in 1770.
During the 1720s, the church underwent major interior repairs, including the installation of a new altarpiece. In the mid-19th century, the exterior of the church was restored. A more extensive interior reconstruction was completed in 1887, while the present tower was finished in 1884. A thorough interior renovation was carried out in 1938, and the church walls and roof were restored again in 1953.
Bell and Belfry
A bell tower once stood near the main road southwest of the church. A new belfry was constructed in 1746, but it was demolished after the church tower was built, and the timber was later reused for firewood at the local school.
The oldest known church bell was taken during the Danish campaign of 1612. About twenty years later, a bell previously belonging to Kellstorp Manor was purchased for the church. This bell, originally cast in 1607 for Degeberg Manor in Rackeby parish, still survives today.
A new church bell was acquired in 1821, but it was later melted down and recast into the bells installed in 1924.
Church Guide
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.
Getting Here by Public Transport
By Bus (Västtrafik)
You can reach Friel Church by taking Västtrafik bus route 130 between Såtenäs and Lidköping. Get off at Friel Church bus stop.
For timetables and journey planning, visit the Västtrafik website or use the Västtrafik To Go app.