It happens sometimes that first time visitors to Närpes get a wide eye surprise when they go past the church right outside of the downtown core. Rows and rows of small, red, windowless buildings, app. 150 in total, can be seen there. These are the unique church stables. They were used in the old days for housing horses during the church service. The stables were built for the horses and the long protruding roofs were intended to offer protection for sleighs and buggies.
The oldest preserved church stables stem from the end of the 18th century, but some were built in the beginning of the 20th century. At the most 400 stables were once in use. Nowadays you can walk freely around the area of the church stables, but those who want to know more can also book a guide.
