In the early 17th century the first churches were built in the vast regions of Lapland, and the church in Arvidsjaur was completed in 1607. The church was to bring to the Saami Christianity and Christian teachings. A so-called church attendance law stipulated a minimum level of attendance, but this was difficult for the nomadic Saami to fulfil. Since the road to church was long, overnight gahties were built and nearby the settlers built their church cottages.
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