The church in Svínoy stands above the village, on a headland, unlike churches in other villages, which are typically built down by the shore. It has not been relocated in modern times but has stood in this spot for as long as people remember—along with earlier churches before it. No other burial ground is known besides the one by the church.

The previous church was demolished in 1834, as church records state that “the church is under repair, until fully restored.” In 1836, it was recorded as a “newly built church, generally in good condition.”

Further church inspections took place in 1844 and 1864, and in 1871, a note stated:
“The church is completely deteriorated due to age. Its outer cladding is entirely rotten. The roof leaks. The foundation beams on the southern and eastern gables are completely decayed. Since the damage is so extensive throughout the entire church that it cannot be repaired, and since the church is also far too small for the congregation, it should be demolished, and a new one built.”

A final church inspection in 1878 stated:
“This is the last inspection of the church. A new one is under construction.”
This means that by 1878, construction of a new church was already underway, but it was not built on the foundation of the old one.

The church built between 1877-1879 was different from its predecessors. It was constructed with hewn stone, making it larger, taller, and wider than the earlier churches.

The construction was led by Johan A. Petersen from Mikladalur.

The church spire bears the year 1878, but an article in Dimmalætting No. 28 from 1879 states:
“The consecration of Svínoy Church will take place on July 20.”

(Source: J. P. Gregoriussen, “Yngru Hválvkirkjurnar”)

Independent Parish