Västerås Cathedral
Västmanlands län
Västerås Cathedral, located in Västmanlands län, Sweden, serves as the seat of the Diocese of Västerås. Originally consecrated in 1271, this five-aisled hall church showcases Scandinavian Brick Gothic architecture with a copper-covered roof and a distinctive west tower capped by an obelisk-shaped copper spire designed by Nicodemus Tessin the Younger in 1694. The cathedral's structure evolved from a 13th-century Romanesque basilica, expanding eastward in the 1460s and reaching its current size by 1517. Its interior houses notable features such as the sarcophagus of King Eric XIV of Sweden and a historically significant organ built initially in 1898, later enlarged to 65 stops. The cathedral also holds Sweden's richest collection of epitaphs from the Swedish Empire period and a medieval altarpiece of the highest quality. Beyond its architectural and historical importance, Västerås Cathedral is an active cultural center hosting concerts, lectures, and educational programs, welcoming visitors year-round to explore its treasures and heritage.
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Tip: Visit Västerås Cathedral during weekdays between 9 AM and 5 PM to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Consider booking guided tours or attending concerts for a richer experience. Tickets for special exhibitions and events may be available in advance, and discounts are often offered for students and seniors. The cathedral is accessible by public transport, and visitors are encouraged to check the official website for current opening hours and scheduled activities.
Interesting facts
- •The cathedral's Baroque spire, built in 1694, is made entirely of oak without iron beams or nails, and covered with copper.
- •It houses the sarcophagus of King Eric XIV of Sweden, who reigned from 1560 to 1568.
- •The great organ, originally built in 1898, was the first large Swedish organ with tubular pneumatic action and included five high-pressure stops, a Swedish first.
- •The organ façade was designed by Agi Lindegren and the instrument has been expanded and restored multiple times, preserving its monumental sound.
- •Västerås Cathedral holds Sweden's richest collection of epitaphs from the Swedish Empire era.
- •The cathedral is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and John the Baptist, reflecting its medieval origins as a 'Our Lady and Saint John' church.
History
The site of Västerås Cathedral has hosted a church since at least the 12th century, with the current building consecrated in 1271 as a Romanesque basilica.
Over the centuries, the cathedral expanded significantly, notably eastward in the 1460s under Bishop Lydeke Abelsson and reaching its present five-aisled hall church form by 1517.
The copper roof was installed in the 17th century, and the iconic Baroque spire was added in 1694, designed by Nicodemus Tessin the Younger.
Throughout the 16th to 18th centuries, the interior was enriched with various fixtures, including the organ and epitaphs.
The cathedral remains a central ecclesiastical and cultural monument in Västerås.
Place Guide
The West Tower and Baroque Spire1694
The cathedral's striking west tower is topped by an obelisk-shaped Baroque spire designed by Nicodemus Tessin the Younger in 1694. The spire is notable for its construction entirely from oak without iron nails, covered in copper, symbolizing architectural ingenuity of the period.
The Great Organ1898
Originally built in 1898 by Åkerman & Lund, the cathedral's organ was pioneering in Sweden for its tubular pneumatic action and high-pressure stops. The organ façade was designed by Agi Lindegren. It has been enlarged several times, most recently in 2009, now featuring 65 stops over four manuals and pedals, preserving its monumental sound.
Sarcophagus of King Eric XIV16th century
The cathedral houses the sarcophagus of King Eric XIV of Sweden, who ruled from 1560 to 1568. His tomb is a significant historical artifact within the cathedral, connecting visitors to Sweden's royal history.
Medieval Altarpiece and EpitaphsMedieval period and Swedish Empire era
Västerås Cathedral contains a medieval altarpiece of exceptional quality and Sweden's richest collection of epitaphs from the Swedish Empire period, showcasing the artistic and cultural heritage preserved within the church.
Contact
Phone: 021-81 46 00
