The Wooden Architecture of Northern Europe: From the Viking Era to the 20th Century

The book explores the wealth of wooden architecture in Northern Europe, particularly the Fennoscandian Peninsula, which was dominated by coniferous forest until the 20th century. It focuses on domestic and religious buildings, discussing the two different timber-building traditions and the development of wooden domestic and religious buildings during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 20 June 2022
Publisher: Lund Humphries Publishers Ltd

This captivating book delves into the rich tapestry of wooden architecture that thrives in Northern Europe, with a special focus on the Fennoscandian Peninsula. This distinct region, encompassing Norway, Sweden, Finland, and the Russian Republic of Karelia, has been dominated by coniferous forests for centuries, creating a predominantly rural society until well into the 20th century. Wood, in this context, is regarded as a living material, infused with myth and folklore, while the forest itself serves as the backdrop to everyday life. Indeed, no single source of material wealth has contributed more to the economy, art, and culture of Fennoscandia than its vast forests. This remarkable contribution is evident in the region's historic buildings, the majority of which were constructed entirely from wood until the late 19th century.

This groundbreaking work is the first to comprehensively examine and document the unique wooden architecture of this region, spanning from the early medieval period to the early 20th century. Organized by different types of wood, it delves into domestic and religious buildings, as these constitute the bulk of historic architecture in the peninsula over many centuries. The book begins by providing a comprehensive background, encompassing the geographical, social, and historical context of the region. It then explores the emergence of two distinct timber-building traditions, which have shaped the architectural landscape.

Following this, the book offers a detailed examination of various types of dwellings, both rural and urban, as well as storage lofts. It further explores Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox churches, along with their free-standing bell towers, showcasing the architectural diversity and craftsmanship of the region.

In conclusion, this book serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in architectural history, wood craftsmanship, and the cultural heritage of Fennoscandia. It provides a comprehensive and detailed account of the region's wooden architecture, shedding light on its evolution, significance, and enduring legacy.

Weight: 1080g
Dimension: 197 x 259 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781848225800