It was the church for the old Kvamsøy parish which is now part of the Sogn prosti (deanery) in the Diocese of Bjørgvin.

The white, stone church was built in a basilica design between the years 1280 and 1300.

The church sat on the small island of Kvamsøy which lies about 50 metres (160 ft) off the mainland shore.

The parish continues to use the church for special events and it holds two services there each year: one in May and one on Olsok.

Other special services such as funerals and weddings can be held there when requested.