Also included in our Onsala visit this time, or at least in mine, was a little bit of sightseeing. Petra had told me some stories about the rather special history of their local church, so we went to see if it was open to visit.
Luckily it was! Such a beautiful and unique church!
The original church that stood here was built already during the Middle Ages, and stones from that church later got built into the walls when it was later rebuilt. The pulpit is positioned on the right side of the church, which is a trace of the Danish era during the 1500s when Halland was still part of Denmark.
There are two votive ships hanging from the ceiling, donated to the church during the 1800s. One is an East Indiaman and the other a full-rigged ship. Really showing how this is a maritime area.
But, down in the crypt is where you find something really intriguing. Two marble coffins, with pirate decorations on them! They contain the remains of Lars and Ingela Gathenhielm.
Lars Gathenhielm was a sea captain, merchant and privateer who became really wealthy and influential during the Great Northern War. He received a commission from the king that granted him permission to seize ships from enemy nations. He was later enobled for his efforts on behalf of Swedish navigation. Despite this royal protection, he was accused of pure piracy against Swedish ships as well, but he was never convicted.
Very unusual, interesting and cool!
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