Uppsala Cathedral: History, Royal Tombs & Visitor Guide

Uppsala Cathedral: A Complete Visitor’s Guide

Uppsala Cathedral (Uppsala domkyrka) stands as the largest cathedral in Scandinavia, reaching a height of 118.7 meters with its twin spires dominating the skyline of Uppsala. Built in the French Gothic style, this impressive structure has been the religious center of Sweden for over 700 years and continues to draw visitors from around the world interested in its rich history, architectural splendor, and royal connections.

History and Background of Uppsala Cathedral

The cathedral’s construction began in 1287 under the direction of French architects, taking nearly 150 years to complete. According to Wikipedia, it wasn’t until 1435 that the cathedral was officially consecrated, though it was in use before this date.

Construction and Development

The cathedral replaced an earlier church in Gamla Uppsala, the ancient center of pagan worship. The move from Gamla Uppsala to the current location marked a significant shift in Sweden’s religious landscape. After a devastating fire in 1702, the cathedral underwent major reconstruction, with its current appearance reflecting the restoration efforts of the late 19th century.

Significant Events

Uppsala Cathedral has witnessed numerous pivotal moments in Swedish history:

• 1527: King Gustav Vasa introduced the Protestant Reformation in Sweden at Uppsala Cathedral
• 1593: The Uppsala Synod formalized Sweden’s adoption of Lutheranism
• 1607: The coronation of King Karl IX
• 2025: Celebration of 850 years as the seat of Sweden’s ecclesiastical province

Connection to Swedish Royalty

The cathedral has strong ties to the Swedish monarchy. According to Svenska kyrkan, it has served as the coronation church for many Swedish kings and continues to host royal ceremonies and commemorations to this day.

Architecture and Interior of Uppsala Cathedral

The cathedral represents one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in Northern Europe, with distinctive features that set it apart from other cathedrals of the era.

Exterior and Height

With its imposing twin spires reaching 118.7 meters high, Uppsala Cathedral dominates the city skyline. The exterior is characterized by:

• Red brick construction typical of Northern Gothic style
• Flying buttresses supporting the massive structure
• Ornate portals with detailed stone carvings
• Rose windows allowing light to filter into the nave

Interior Details

The cathedral’s vast interior space impresses visitors with its soaring vaulted ceiling and intricate architectural elements:

• The main nave extends 118.7 meters in length
• Stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes and Swedish history
• The magnificent 17th-century Baroque pulpit
• The impressive pipe organ, renovated in 2000, with over 5,000 pipes

The Treasury

The cathedral houses one of Europe’s finest collections of medieval church textiles in its Treasury (Skattkammaren). According to Svenska kyrkan, visitors can admire exquisite ecclesiastical garments, reliquaries, and other religious artifacts dating back to the Middle Ages.

Notable Burials in Uppsala Cathedral

The cathedral serves as the final resting place for many prominent figures in Swedish history, making it a site of significant historical interest.

Gustav Vasa’s Tomb

King Gustav Vasa (1496-1560), the founder of modern Sweden, is entombed in the cathedral along with his three wives. According to Unofficial Royalty, his elaborate marble sarcophagus, adorned with his recumbent effigy, stands as one of the cathedral’s most significant monuments.

Other Royal and Notable Graves

The cathedral contains numerous other important tombs and memorials:

• King Johan III and his family
• Scientist Carl Linnaeus, father of modern taxonomy
• Philosopher and theologian Emanuel Swedenborg
• Scientist Anders Celsius, creator of the Celsius temperature scale
• Archbishop Nathan Söderblom, Nobel Peace Prize laureate

Visiting Uppsala Cathedral

The cathedral welcomes visitors throughout the year, offering insights into Sweden’s religious and royal history.

Opening Hours and Admission

According to the official website of Svenska kyrkan, Uppsala Cathedral is open to visitors most days from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. There is no entrance fee for general admission, making it accessible to all visitors interested in its history and architecture.

Guided Tours

Guided tours provide deeper insights into the cathedral’s history and significance:

• Daily tours in English at 10:30 AM and 2:00 PM (June-August)
• Weekend tours (September-May)
• Special thematic tours focusing on architecture, royal history, or religious significance
• Group tours available by appointment

Events and Programs

The cathedral hosts numerous events throughout the year, according to Destination Uppsala:

• Regular church services and mass
• Choir performances and organ concerts
• Seasonal celebrations (Easter, Christmas, etc.)
• Special exhibitions in the Treasury and Cathedral Museum
• The 850th anniversary celebrations in 2025

Practical Information

Planning your visit to Uppsala Cathedral is straightforward with this essential information.

Address and Contact

Uppsala Cathedral is located in the heart of Uppsala:

• Address: Domkyrkoplan, 753 10 Uppsala, Sweden
• Phone: +46 18 430 37 00
• Email: uppsala.domkyrka@svenskakyrkan.se
• Website: svenskakyrkan.se/uppsaladomkyrka

Getting There

The cathedral is easily accessible by various means of transportation:

• By train: Uppsala Central Station is approximately 10 minutes’ walk from the cathedral
• By bus: Several city bus lines stop near Domkyrkoplan
• By car: Parking is available in nearby garages, though limited in the city center
• From Stockholm: Uppsala is only 40 minutes by train from Stockholm Central Station

Nearby Attractions

While visiting Uppsala Cathedral, consider exploring these nearby points of interest:

• Uppsala University Museum Gustavianum
• The Botanical Garden
• Uppsala Castle
• Gamla Uppsala Archaeological Site (approximately 5 km north)

Frequently Asked Questions About Uppsala Cathedral