Sandar Church

Sandar Church located in Sandefjord replaced a medieval stone church that stood there before. When the medieval stone church was built is uncertain, but in the beginning of the 20th century, coins from the first half of the 12th century was found on the church ground. What we do know is that the church was dedicated to both St. Olav and Virgin Mary.

By late 18th century the church was in terrible condition. It was also too small for the growing local population, which led to the demolition of the church in 1790. Building blocks belonging to the medieval church can still be found in the ground underneath the churchyard today, as well as many medieval graves.

The new church was finished in 1792, and later went through major repairs in 1868. During this restoration the church spire we see today was added, as well as the stairwell by the western entrance, open pews, a new black marble baptismal font and a new coat of paint.

By 1929 the interior was rehabilitated, and the churches original colours were brought back. There was a proposition in 1991 to paint the outer walls of the church in its original colours as well, but they decided against this, and the church remained white.