Riddarholmen Church — Attraction in Stockholm

Nestled on Riddarholmen Island, Riddarholmskyrkan (Riddarholm Church) stands as one of Stockholm’s most iconic landmarks. This historic church, with its soaring Gothic spire and red-brick façade, is not just a stunning example of medieval architecture but also a mausoleum for Swedish monarchs.

Historical Significance

The Riddarholmskyrkan dates back to the late 13th century, originally built as a monastery church for the Greyfriars (Franciscan monks). It’s one of Stockholm’s oldest buildings, with its oldest sections constructed around 1270 under the reign of Magnus III. The church was completed in 1300 and has since undergone numerous modifications, including the addition of the striking openwork cast iron spire after a lightning strike in 1835 destroyed the original one.

It became a royal burial church in the 16th century, a role it continues to play today. Many Swedish monarchs from Gustavus Adolphus to Gustaf V are interred here, making it a crucial repository of Sweden’s regal history. The church ceased regular services in 1807, and since then, it has functioned mainly as a place of burial and a historical monument.

Current Relevance

Today, Riddarholmskyrkan serves both as a monument of Swedish heritage and a solemn site where visitors can connect with the nation’s royal past. The church is open to tourists and history enthusiasts who can explore the royal tombs and enjoy the serene, timeless atmosphere.

Tourist Tips

Opening Hours & Tickets: Riddarholmskyrkan is typically open to visitors from late May to early September. Check the official website or contact the church for precise hours and any special events. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and guided tours are available. Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon visits are recommended to avoid crowds. The light during these times also enhances the church’s Gothic features, making for memorable photographs. Guided Tours: Opt for a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the church’s history and the stories behind the royal burials. English-language tours are available. Nearby Attractions: Combine your visit with a tour of Stockholm’s Old Town (Gamla Stan), just a short walk away. The Stockholm Palace and the Nobel Prize Museum are also nearby and offer additional layers of historical context. Respect the Site: As a burial site, visitors should maintain a respectful demeanor. Photography is allowed, but flash and tripods are discouraged to preserve the ambiance and integrity of the artifacts.

Curiosities and Unique Features

The Unique Spire: Riddarholmskyrkan’s cast iron spire, a rarity among medieval churches, replaced the original wooden one and stands out against Stockholm’s skyline. It’s a distinctive symbol of the church and offers a dramatic silhouette. The Royal Sarcophagi: The church houses intricately designed sarcophagi of Swedish monarchs and nobility. Of particular interest is the baroque sarcophagus of King Karl XII, known for its artistic detail. The Wrought Iron Screens: Inside the church, the beautifully crafted wrought iron screens separating the royal tombs from the main church area are a testament to the fine craftsmanship of the era. Magnus III’s Chapel: The chapel dedicated to King Magnus III, who founded the church, is a must-see for its serene ambiance and historical importance. Rune Stones: Outside the church, you can find two rune stones embedded in the churchyard wall. These stones predate the church and offer a glimpse into the Viking Age, adding an unexpected layer of history to your visit. The Clock: Riddarholmskyrkan’s clock, dating back to the 17th century, is one of the few remaining mechanical clocks in Sweden still in working condition. Observing its mechanisms in motion is a...

During my recent visit to Stockholm while on a cruise, I made a point to cross the Riddarholm Bridge to explore Riddarholmen, one of the three islands that make up Gamla Stan (Old Town). The highlight of this peaceful island was definitely Riddarholm Church (Riddarholmskyrkan)—one of the oldest surviving buildings in Stockholm, dating back to the 13th century.

The Gothic architecture is striking, with a cast-iron spire that adds drama to the skyline. As soon as you step inside (entrance is 60 SEK or included with the Stockholm Pass), you’re surrounded by centuries of royal history. This church is the final resting place for many Swedish monarchs, and the royal tombs and coats of arms create a solemn, powerful atmosphere. It’s not an active parish church anymore, but rather a royal burial church and historic site—quiet, reverent, and rich in heritage.

What I loved most was how uncrowded and calm the site was when we visited in early May. It felt like stepping into a quieter, more contemplative part of the city, just a short walk away from the bustling tourist areas.

After visiting, I retraced my steps back across the bridge and continued my Old Town walking tour toward Storkyrkan Church, which you can see from the hill on Storkyrkbrinken.

If you're visiting Stockholm and want to connect with the city’s medieval roots and royal legacy, this spot is a must-see. Take a moment to walk the island, soak in the views of the water and Parliament, and step inside this historic gem. A very...

Riddarholmskyrkan, ursprungligen Gråbrödrakyrkan, är en kyrka belägen på Riddarholmen i Stockholm, invigd cirka år 1300. Den uppfördes ursprungligen som en katolsk klosterkyrka åt Gråbrödraklostret, grundat 1270, tillhörande Franciskanorden, efter donation av kung Magnus Ladulås. Därmed utgör den Stockholms äldsta bevarade byggnad med de äldsta tegelmurarna ovan jord, samt Stockholms enda bevarade medeltida klosterkyrka. Efter kung Gustav Vasas reduktion och den protestantiska reformationen blev den en del av Svenska kyrkan, varefter den blivit känd som de svenska monarkernas gravkyrka, och för Serafimerorden, samt även förknippad med den moderna adeln i Sverige.

Riddarholmen Church (Swedish: Riddarholmskyrkan) is the church of the former medieval Greyfriars Monastery in Stockholm, Sweden. The church serves as the final resting place of most Swedish monarchs.

Coats of arms of knights of the Royal Order of the Seraphim are on the walls of the church. When a knight of the Order dies, his coat of arms is hung in the church and when the funeral takes place the church's bells are rung without pause from 12:00 to 13:00.

Ріддарго́льменська це́рква (швед. Riddarholmskyrkan) — церква у Швеції, в Стокгольмі, на острові Ріддаргольмен (Лицарський острівець). Датується кінцем XIII століття. Одна з найстаріших готичних будівель міста. Заснована в 1270 році, коли король зробив пожертву Францисканському ордену, на гроші якого був побудований жіночий монастир, від якого і бере початок церква. З 1634 по 1950 рік у церкві хоронили королів Швеції. В даний час церква використовується як туристичний об'єкт, а також для похоронних і поминальних служб. Тут поховані більшість шведських монархів: Густав II Адольф, Карл XII, Густав V та ін. Також тут знаходяться поховання Магнуса I і Карла VIII. У церкві знаходиться герб ордену Серафимів. Коли вмирає кавалер ордена, герб вивішується в церкві, і під час похоронної церемонії церковні дзвони дзвонять з 12:00 до 13:00. Візитною карткою — витонченим шпилем — церква зобов'язана блискавці, що вдарила в дзвіницю в 1835 році.

Церковь Риддархольмена (Риддархольмская церковь; швед. Riddarholmskyrkan) — церковь, расположенная на острове Риддархольмен, рядом с Королевским дворцом в Стокгольме, Швеция. Единственная сохранившаяся в Стокгольме средневековая монастырская церковь. Усыпальница шведских монархов. Традиция захоронения монархов на Риддархольмене сохранялась до 1950 года. Необычный стальной ажурный шпиль храма — одна из двух архитектурных доминант Гамластана (наряду со шпилем Немецкой церкви) и один из...