Long time ago the church required people to maintain this kind of church boats (kirkkovene) so that they could easily go to a church in a land that has many lakes, islands and a long shoreline on the Baltic Sea.
Today the boats have more historical and recreational significance. One of the best known summer events of the country is Sulkavan soudut in South-Eastern Finland. About 8000 people take part in the world’s biggest rowing competition where they travel a distance of about 60 kilometers. In a boat like this it takes somethings like four hours and it will take much longer if you do it alone. This year the competition will be held on 9-12 July.
Great church boat photo! The boat looks quite heavy. I think those guys must have been very tired! Regards from EAGAN daily photo
I was on that bridge but a few days ago, you can still see my shadow there
Good photo, nice post.