Harmånger Church

Christians have been present in the Harmånger area for approximately 1,000 years. This is evidenced by the cross-marked runestone in Jättendal, which, according to its inscription, was erected in memory of Torkel from the village of Vattrång—a village within Harmånger.

Harmånger Church was likely built in the late 12th or early 13th century. During the late Middle Ages, the chancel was demolished, and the church was extended eastward, maintaining the same width and height as the nave. Around the same time—the late 15th century—three brick star vaults were constructed within the church.

The *kastal* (fortified tower) standing beside the church is a highly distinctive and unusual structure. It, too, dates back to the medieval period, likely contemporary with the oldest part of the church. The tower underwent extensive remodeling in 1888, which makes it difficult to date precisely; this renovation saw the addition of the spire, the tower pillars, and the large belfry openings.

Two bells hang in the tower, both cast in 1665 by Andreas Höök. It is rare for bells of such age to remain in use, and they are likely the oldest active bells in Hälsingland. The large bell bears an inscription in Latin taken from Psalm 150:5, while the smaller bell features a text from Psalm 150:6 in Swedish.

The church interior dates primarily from 1888. Features added at that time include the pews, the gallery, the organ facade, and the large painted windows in the chancel. The style is Neo-Gothic. The interior has undergone partial changes during renovations in 1923, 1971–72, and 2009. The most recent renovation saw the addition of a new portable altar, placed at the crossing to allow for more flexible use of the church. Twelve pews were removed to make way for movable chairs. The chancel area was left untouched.

The pulpit was crafted in the 17th century by Måns Snickare of Hudiksvall, who produced many pulpits in the Hälsingland region. The Harmånger pulpit is a clear example of the Late Renaissance style.

The sculptures originate from a workshop active in the early 16th century. Sculptures from the same workshop have also been preserved in churches such as Järvsö and Hanebo.

The high altar, altar cross, and altar rail were installed in 1888. The altar cross is a wheel cross; all these elements are executed in the Neo-Gothic style and serve as fine examples of it. The stained-glass windows in the chancel were also added in 1888. The central window depicts Christ in Majesty—*Majestas Domini*—within a mandorla (an almond-shaped halo of light). He holds a book bearing the letters A and O. In the Book of Revelation, Jesus says, "I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End."

Tel: +46(0)652-74 73 00. Parish Office.
Contact: Nordanstigskustens church congregation
E-mail: [email protected]
https://www.svenskakyrkan.se/nordanstigskusten