Varhaug Old Cemetery

Varhaug Old Cemetery, nestled within the historic Varhaug farm in the municipality of Hå, is a testament to the enduring beauty of our past. This holy ground, steeped in the echoes of time, traces its origins back to the Middle Ages and stands proudly as a cherished cultural monument.

The first whispers of devotion echoed through this sacred land around 1200 when the foundations of a church were laid. Since then, different churches have been built on the same ground.

Today's chapel was built in 1951. This intimate sanctuary, spanning just over 15 square meters, cradles 14 traditional wicker chairs, ready to witness the most profound and sacred moments of life. It is a place where hearts unite in matrimony, where promises are made to withstand the tests of time.

Within the chapel, an ancient church bell, whose tolls have marked centuries of joy and sorrow since 1791, resounds with the spirit of the ages. A replica of the "Sapienta" sculpture, a symbol of wisdom dating from 1650-1720, graces the chapel's walls. According to the Stavanger Museum, this sculpture may once have adorned a long-lost church that once stood upon this site.

In 2003, the chapel played host to a unique chapter in its history when it became the backdrop for the music video of "Evig Pint" (Eternal Suffering) from Kaizer's Orchestra's album. The chapel's walls witnessed the creative fusion of art and history, where the past and the present converged to leave an indelible mark on our collective memory.

Varhaug Old Cemetery with its chapel is a favourite spot for taking photos, and it reminds us that time may pass, but the essence of our human journey remains eternal, preserving our stories, our hopes, and our dreams for generations to come.

Source: «Kyrkjegarden ved havet»