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Riddarholmen Church
Riddarholmen Church (Riddarholmskyrkan) is one of Stockholm's oldest structures and has served as the official burial place for Swedish monarchs for centuries. It originated as a Franciscan monastery church founded in the late 13th century by King Magnus Ladulås. The building is characterized by its Gothic brick architecture and its striking cast-iron spire, which was installed in 1835 after a lightning strike destroyed the previous wooden version. Nearly all Swedish rulers from Gustavus Adolphus to Gustaf V are entombed within its walls, making it a focal point of national heritage. The church interior is notably decorated with the coats of arms of the knights of the Order of the Seraphim, Sweden's highest honor. Since the congregation was dissolved in 1807, the church has functioned primarily as a museum and commemorative site rather than a place of regular worship. Located on the island of Riddarholmen, it remains a powerful symbol of Swedish history and royal continuity.
- Location: Sweden
- Top sights: Hessensteinska palatset · Stenbockska palatset · Riddarholm Church
- Nearby: Aspudden (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -3 | -3 | 0 | 5 | 11 | 15 | 18 | 17 | 13 | 7 | 3 | -1 |
| Rain mm | 47 | 40 | 39 | 37 | 50 | 78 | 70 | 72 | 55 | 63 | 61 | 54 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- The church was founded as a Franciscan priory in the late 13th century.
- It is the final resting place of most Swedish monarchs since 1632.
- The iconic openwork cast-iron spire was completed in 1835.
- King Magnus Ladulås was buried here following his death in 1290.
- The walls display coats of arms of the Order of the Seraphim knights.
- The building has not been a functioning parish church since 1807.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Riddarholmen Church (10)
Wrangelska palatset🏰 castle
Has a long history; the southern tower was part of Gustav Vasa's defence fortifications from the 1530s.
House of Nobility
Palace built in 1641-1674, owned and managed by Sweden's knights and nobility.
Birger Jarls torn🗼 tower
16th century defence tower on Riddarholmen in Stockholm, Sweden.
Living history forum🏛 museum
An exhibition about the bystander.
Post Museum🏛 museum
History of the Swedish postal service, postcards and stamps.
Vasabron
Road bridge between Norrmalm and Gamla stan in Stockholm, Sweden.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Are religious services still held here?
Which Swedish monarchs are buried here?
When was the church built?
Can you visit the distinctive spire?
When is the church open?
Riddarholmen Church: where is it located?
Riddarholmen Church: what is there to see?
Riddarholmen Church: when is the best time to visit?
Riddarholmen Church: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
