Stockholm’s skyline features beautiful churches that showcase its rich history and architectural diversity. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most significant and stunning churches around the city.
This is the third of eight articles about Stockholm’s architecture. Go to this page for a list of all articles in this series.
Gustaf Vasa Church
Gustaf Vasa Church (Gustaf Vasa kyrka), a prominent landmark, located right in front of the Odenplan square in Stockholm’s Vasastan district.
The church was inaugurated on June 10, 1906, and is named after King Gustav I of Sweden, a pivotal figure in the country’s history during the 16th century. Its construction was necessitated by the growing population in Norrmalm, leading to the division of the Adolf Fredrik parish and the creation of the Gustaf Vasa parish.
Designed by architect Agi Lindegren, the church is a remarkable example of Baroque Revival architecture. The structure features a Greek cross floor plan and an impressive dome that rises to 60 meters (approximately 200 feet), making it one of the tallest churches in Stockholm. With seating for 1,200 to 1,500 people, it is also among the city’s largest churches.
The church’s grand façade is adorned with decorative elements characteristic of Baroque architecture, creating a striking visual impression.
Address: Karlbergsvägen 1-5 (Google maps)
Oscar’s Church
Oscar’s Church (Oscarskyrkan) is a prominent neo-Gothic church located in Stockholm’s Östermalm district, at the intersection of the streets Storgatan and Narvavägen, not far from the Swedish History Museum.
Designed by Gustaf Hermansson, the church exemplifies the neo-Gothic style, with its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and towering spires. It was commissioned by King Oscar II on December 11, 1897 and constructed between 1897 and 1903. The church features a three-aisled hall design that accommodates up to 1,200 people and is distinguished by its 80-meter-high (260 feet) tower located in the southwestern corner. The exterior is clad in rough-cut grayish-white limestone, adding to its striking appearance.
Today, Oscar’s Church serves not only as a place of worship but also as a venue for cultural and community events. It is particularly renowned for its annual Lucia celebrations in December, which draw visitors from across the city.
Address: Narvavägen 6 (Google maps)
Hedvig Eleonora Church
When standing in front of the Army Museum in Stockholm’s Östermalm district, you’ll notice the top of Hedvig Eleonora Church rising just behind the museum building. From the right angle, the church’s crown aligns perfectly with the museum’s center, creating the illusion that it’s an extension of the museum. Named after Queen Hedvig Eleonora of Sweden (1636–1715), wife of King Charles X Gustav, the church is a significant historical and architectural landmark.
Construction began in 1669, but financial constraints caused significant delays. The church was finally consecrated on August 21, 1737, nearly 70 years after its foundation was laid. Designed in the Baroque style by architect Göran Josuae Adelcrantz, it is distinguished by its octagonal shape and grand dome, both hallmark features of its architectural design.
Today, Hedvig Eleonora Church is one of Stockholm’s most popular venues for weddings, christenings, and funerals, cherished for its historical ambiance and architectural beauty. The churchyard serves as the final resting place for several notable figures, including musician Tim Bergling (Avicii) and educator Matilda Widegren.
Address: Storgatan 2 (Google maps)
Katarina Church
Katarina Church (Katarina kyrka) is a historic Lutheran church located in Stockholm’s Södermalm district. Built between 1656 and 1695, it was named after Princess Catherine, mother of King Charles X Gustav, and designed by the prominent architect Jean de la Vallée.
An exceptional example of Baroque architecture, the church features a distinctive Greek cross plan with a massive brick dome at its center, surrounded by four cross-arms. Following a devastating fire in 1723, an octagonal tower was added, enhancing the church’s architectural profile.
Throughout its history, Katarina Church has endured two significant fires. The first, on May 1, 1723, led to a reconstruction directed by Göran Josua Adelcrantz, restoring its original grandeur. The second fire, on May 17, 1990, necessitated a complete restoration, which carefully preserved the church’s historic character while incorporating meticulous craftsmanship.
Adding to its historic charm is Charles XII’s Stair, a double staircase leading to the southern entrance. The surrounding churchyard is the final resting place of several notable Swedes, including Cornelis Vreeswijk and Anna Lindh. Katarina Church is widely regarded as one of the most significant Baroque Lutheran churches in Scandinavia, admired for its architectural elegance and enduring historical and cultural importance.
Address: Högbergsgatan 13A (Google maps)
St. Mary Magdalene Church
St. Mary Magdalene Church (Maria Magdalena kyrka) is a historic Lutheran church situated in the Södermalm district of Stockholm. As the oldest church in Södermalm, it stands as a testament to the district’s rich history and architectural heritage.
Construction of the church began in 1588 and was completed in 1634, showcasing an enduring Baroque style. Over the centuries, the church has undergone significant transformations, particularly after a devastating fire in 1759. The post-fire renovations preserved the church’s grandeur while enhancing its design. Its distinctive tower and spire, once described as “the most beautiful spire in Stockholm”, remain a defining feature of the city’s skyline.
One of the best vantage points to admire the church in its full splendor is from Hornsgatspuckeln (the “Hornsgatan Hump”) on the street Hornsgatan. This elevated spot offers a striking view of the church, framed by the charm of Södermalm’s urban landscape.
Address: Bellmansgatan 13 (Google maps)
Sofia Church
Sofia Church (Sofia kyrka) is a striking landmark perched on the northeastern peak of Vita Bergen park in Stockholm’s Södermalm district. Consecrated in 1906, the church was named in honor of Queen Sofia of Nassau and was the result of an architectural competition held in 1899. Its prominent location in the eastern part of Södermalm makes it a significant feature of Stockholm’s skyline, visible from various points across the city.
The church is a harmonious blend of Gothic Revival and Art Nouveau architectural styles, characterized by its distinctive red brick façade and a central tower that serves as a focal point of its design. Inside, the church boasts high vaulted ceilings, adorned with intricate frescoes and stained glass windows that add to its serene and uplifting atmosphere.
Located in a historically working-class neighborhood that has since transformed into a vibrant cultural area, Sofia Church is part of the Church of Sweden and serves the Sofia parish. Its enduring architectural beauty, musical legacy, and role within the community make it a cherished landmark in Stockholm.
Address: Klefbecks backe 1 (Google maps)
The Finnish Church
The Finnish Church (Finska kyrkan) is a historic Lutheran church located in Gamla stan. It belongs to the Stockholm Finnish Parish of the Church of Sweden and was originally built as the “Lilla Bollhuset” (Small Ball House) for ball games between 1648 and 1653. Located close to the Royal Palace and the Stockholm Cathedral, it later converted to a church for the Finnish parish in 1725.
The church retains the irregular shape of the original ball house structure and blends traditional Finnish design with Swedish influences, creating a unique architectural style. While not originally designed as a church, the building’s adaptation has resulted in a distinctive sacred space that serves both as a place of worship and a cultural hub for the Finnish community in Stockholm.
Address: Slottsbacken 2B (Google maps)
St. James’s Church
Saint James’s Church (Sankt Jacobs kyrka), a prominent Lutheran church in central Stockholm, is a testament to the city’s rich architectural and historical heritage. Its origins trace back to a chapel first mentioned in 1311, dedicated to St. Jacob and located on the outskirts of the Solna parish. By the 1430s, this modest chapel had likely been replaced by a brick parish church, referred to as “ecclesia parrochialis”.
In 1527, during King Gustav Vasa’s Reduction, the original church was demolished for defensive purposes, with its bricks repurposed to reinforce Stockholm’s inner city fortifications. Decades later, in 1580, King Johan III ordered the reconstruction of St. Jacob’s Church on the same site. The project, overseen by architect Willem Boy, began in 1588 and was envisioned as a brick structure. By 1592, at the time of Johan III’s death, only the three naves, sandstone pillars, and the vault over the crossing had been completed.
Construction stalled until the 1630s, when Charles IX ordered the church to be extended by two bays. Work resumed under the supervision of Governor Klas Flemming, who employed master mason Hans Ferster and stone-cutter Heinrich Blume. The star-ribbed vaults were completed in 1642, and the church was finally inaugurated on November 26, 1643, in the presence of Queen Christina.
The church’s architecture is a fascinating blend of Late Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, reflecting its long construction period and the evolving architectural trends of 16th and 17th-century Stockholm. Among its notable features are a square central tower with a rounded top and lantern, intricately sculpted sandstone portals by Heinrich Blume and Markus Hebel (1643–1644), and star-ribbed vaults that lend a dramatic touch to the interior. The tower houses four bells, three of which were recast after a fire in 1723.
The church is situated adjacent to Kungsträdgården, the Royal Opera, and Gustav Adolf’s Square, Saint James’s Church occupies a prime location in the heart of Stockholm.
Address: Västra Trädgårdsgatan 2A (Google maps)
Engelbrekt Church
Engelbrekt Church (Engelbrektskyrkan) is a prominent architectural and cultural landmark in Stockholm’s Lärkstaden area. Built during the era of romantic nationalism, which celebrated national identity and cultural heritage, the church is named after Engelbrekt Engelbrektsson, a 15th-century Swedish rebel leader and national hero who resisted the Kalmar Union. Construction began on May 14, 1910, and the church was completed on January 25, 1914, with its design by Lars Israel Wahlman exemplifying the National Romantic style.
The church’s cruciform plan incorporates design elements inspired by Byzantine architecture, while its nave, towering at 32 meters (105 feet), is the highest in Scandinavia. Widely regarded as a masterpiece of the Swedish Art Nouveau era and the National Romantic style, Engelbrekt Church seamlessly blends grandeur with symbolic cultural expression.
Perched atop a hill, the church commands a naturally elevated position, offering panoramic views of Stockholm. Its construction emphasized preserving the rugged natural rock beneath it, reflecting the urban planning ideals of the early 20th century that sought harmony between architecture and the environment.
Renowned internationally in architectural circles, Engelbrekt Church stands out not only for its design but also as a powerful symbol of Sweden’s cultural heritage and national pride.
Address: Östermalmsgatan 20 (Google maps)
St. Clara’s Church
St. Clara’s Church (Klara Kyrka) is a historic church in the heart of Stockholm. Its towering spire is clearly visible from the street Klarabergsgatan, just outside Åhléns City department store. Its origins date back to the 1280s, when it was part of a Roman Catholic convent dedicated to Saint Clare. The original convent and church were demolished in 1527 during the Protestant Reformation under King Gustav Vasa. Construction of the present church began in 1572, initiated by King John III, on the same site as the former convent.
The church, and the surrounding Klarakvarteren district, take their name from the medieval convent. Its architecture incorporates late-Gothic elements, such as rib vaults and pointed-arch windows. After a devastating fire in 1751, the interior was redesigned by Chief Architect Carl Hårleman, reflecting 18th-century aesthetics with golden tones, warm hues, and elegant stained glass. The 116-meter (381 feet) tall tower, one of Stockholm’s tallest structures, and the church’s facades received their current appearance during restoration work led by Helgo Zettervall between 1884 and 1886.
The churchyard, established in the 17th century, is the final resting place of several notable figures, including Sweden’s beloved poet Carl Michael Bellman.
Address: Klara Östra kyrkogata 7-9 (Google maps)
The Church of Adolf Fredrikh
The Church of Adolf Fredrik (Adolf Fredriks kyrka) is a historic and architecturally significant church located in central Stockholm. Built between 1768 and 1774, it replaced a wooden chapel from 1674 dedicated to Saint Olof. The church was named after King Adolf Fredrik, who laid the cornerstone in 1768, and it was officially inaugurated on November 27, 1774, in a ceremony attended by King Gustav III.
Designed by architect Baron Carl Fredrik Adelcrantz, the church reflects the Gustavian style, a Swedish interpretation of Neoclassicism. Its Greek cross layout features extended arms to the east and west, while the exterior is distinguished by white plaster walls, copper-colored roofs, and a striking black-painted dome. Between 1893 and 1895, the interior was redesigned with intricate stucco and detailed reliefs, adding a refined elegance to its already impressive design.
One of its most notable features is the Cartesius Monument, created by sculptor Johan Tobias Sergel, which honors the philosopher René Descartes. The church can accommodate approximately 800 visitors and has become a central venue for concerts and musical services, continuing its rich tradition of music and cultural significance.
The church is located at the intersection of the streets Sveavägen, Adolf Fredriks kyrkogata, Holländargatan, and Kammakargatan, the Church of Adolf Fredrik stands as a prominent landmark, blending historical importance with a vibrant role in Stockholm’s cultural and spiritual life.
Address: Holländargatan 16 (Google maps)
Philadelphia Church
Philadelphia Church (Filadelfiakyrkan) is a prominent Pentecostal church located at Rörstrandsgatan 7 in Stockholm, Sweden. As the largest Pentecostal congregation in Sweden and Europe, it had approximately 5,400 members as of 2015, making it a cornerstone of Sweden’s religious community.
Designed by architect Birger Jonsson, the church was constructed between 1929 and 1930 in a distinctive functionalist style and was officially dedicated on November 2, 1930. The exterior is characterized by its curved, grey-whitewashed brick façade and a striking foyer, which boldly reflects the architectural principles of the era.
The sanctuary, designed as an auditorium, features a wide stage and two rows of seating with a curved ceiling engineered for exceptional acoustics, making it a perfect venue for both sermons and musical performances. While originally accommodating 3,500 people, the current seating capacity is 2,200.
As the second-largest free church building in Europe, Filadelfiakyrkan has been recognized for its high historical and cultural value by the Stockholm City Museum. It stands adjacent to the historic Rörstrand Castle, parts of which were demolished to make way for the church’s construction, adding another layer of historical context to this remarkable building.
Address: Rörstrandsgatan 5 (Google maps)
Skeppsholmen Church
Skeppsholmen Church, officially named Carl Johan’s Church (Carl Johans kyrka), is a historic neoclassical landmark located on the islet of Skeppsholmen in central Stockholm. Originally built as a naval chapel, it has evolved into a vibrant cultural venue, seamlessly blending its historical significance with contemporary use.
Designed by architect Fredrik Blom, the church takes inspiration from the Pantheon in Rome, showcasing a monumental octagonal shape and a central dome that rises to an interior height of 30 meters. These defining features lend the building an elegant and timeless character. Construction began in 1823, and despite delays, the church was completed in 1849, with the dome itself finished in 1833. It was built to replace the church Holmkyrkan (which was destroyed by fire in 1822), and was inaugurated on July 24, 1842, by King Charles XIV John.
For over a century, the church served the Skeppsholmen parish, offering spiritual support to naval personnel and their families. This role ended in 1969, reflecting changes in the community and the diminishing naval presence in the area. In 2002, the building was secularized and renamed Eric Ericsonhallen in honor of the celebrated Swedish conductor Eric Ericson. It now functions as a concert hall and home to the Eric Ericson International Choral Centre, hosting performances and events that celebrate choral music and cultural exchange.
The church retains many of its original features, including a temple-shaped lantern light atop the dome and memorial stones in the entrance vault commemorating naval personnel who died during World War II.
Address: Kyrkslingan 2-4 (Google maps)