Växjö Cathedral
Kronobergs län
Växjö Cathedral, located near the city center of Växjö, Sweden, serves as the episcopal seat of the Diocese of Växjö and is a significant religious and historical landmark. The cathedral's origins date back to the late 1100s when it was initially constructed as a Romanesque stone church with a robust west tower. Over the centuries, it evolved architecturally, especially in the 15th century when it was transformed into a Gothic hall church with a central nave and two aisles, incorporating brick as the primary building material. The cathedral has endured several fires, notably in 1276 and 1740, leading to major reconstructions that introduced neoclassical elements and later restorations. Its distinctive twin spires, first added in the 1580s and restored to their current form in 1960, are iconic features of the cityscape. The interior has been remodeled multiple times, with significant 20th-century restorations enhancing its artistic and liturgical elements, including stained glass windows and sculptures by artist Eva Spångberg. The cathedral holds historical significance through its association with Saint Sigfrid, Växjö's patron saint, whose grave is marked inside. Today, Växjö Cathedral remains an active parish church open daily to visitors, offering a blend of medieval heritage and modern spiritual life.
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Tip: The cathedral is open daily from 9:00 to 18:00, with extended hours during services and special events. Visitors are encouraged to check the official website for information on baptisms and wedding bookings. To avoid crowds, mornings and weekdays outside of religious holidays are ideal for visits. Guided tours may be available through the parish office, and advance booking is recommended for group visits. Discounts or special access may be available for students and seniors.
Interesting facts
- •The cathedral’s twin spires were originally added in the 1580s and restored to their current form in 1960.
- •A runestone known as Tyke Vikings stone was discovered embedded in the cathedral’s outer choir wall in the 19th century and is now displayed outside the building.
- •Saint Sigfrid, the patron saint of Växjö, is closely associated with the cathedral; his grave is marked inside, and his relic shrine was kept there until the 1600s.
- •The cathedral has undergone several major fires throughout its history, including one in 1276 and another in 1740 caused by a lightning strike.
- •The interior features wooden sculptures of apostles Peter and Paul carved by artist Eva Spångberg, who also created a Marian statue located in a niche in the north transept.
History
Växjö Cathedral's origins lie in the late 12th century when it was built as a Romanesque stone church featuring a strong west tower.
It became the seat of the Diocese of Växjö around 1170, following its separation from the Diocese of Linköping.
The building underwent a Gothic transformation in the 15th century, adopting hall church architecture and brick construction.
The cathedral suffered significant damage from fires in 1276 and 1740, with the latter caused by a lightning strike, necessitating major rebuilding efforts.
In the 19th century, architect Carl Georg Brunius led extensive renovations that altered the exterior, including the addition of stepped gables.
A comprehensive restoration in 1958–1960 reinstated the twin spires and high pitched roof reminiscent of the late 16th century, while modern interior refurbishments continued into the late 20th century.
Place Guide
West TowerLate 12th century
The robust west tower is a surviving element from the original Romanesque cathedral built in the late 1100s. It features the iconic twin spires, which define the cathedral's silhouette and were restored to their current design in 1960.
Nave and Aisles15th century
Originally a single-nave Romanesque church, the cathedral was transformed in the 15th century into a hall church with a central nave and two aisles, incorporating Gothic architectural elements such as pointed vaults and brick construction.
Interior ArtworksLate 20th century to 2002
The interior houses wooden sculptures of apostles Peter and Paul by Eva Spångberg, as well as a Marian statue carved by the same artist, located in the north transept niche. The chancel area features modern stained glass windows and a glass altar completed in 2002.
Contact
Phone: 0470-70 48 00