Riddarholmen Church

Riddarholmen Church (Riddarholmskyrkan) is a medieval church on the islet of Riddarholmen in central Stockholm that functions primarily as the burial church for Swedish monarchs. It is one of the oldest preserved buildings in the city, with origins as a 13th-century Franciscan monastery.

The church’s main draws are its exterior medieval brick architecture and the interior collection of royal tombs and funerary monuments dating from the early modern period. The iron spire and visible tomb effigies make the church a focal point for those interested in Sweden’s royal history and funerary art.

Originally built by the Franciscan order, the structure has seen repairs and alterations over the centuries, and it ceased to operate as an ordinary parish church in the 19th century, remaining part historic monument and part ceremonial site for state occasions. Conservation work has focused on preserving the fabric and the tomb monuments.

Riddarholmen Church sits on the small island of Riddarholmen just west of Stockholm’s old town (Gamla Stan), directly adjacent to central Stockholm waterfront quays and easily reached on foot from the city centre.

• Age and origins: The church is one of Stockholm's oldest buildings, with medieval origins as a 13th-century Greyfriars Franciscan monastery.
• Best viewpoints: Best exterior photographic views are from the western quays and bridges of Riddarholmen, where the church's tall spire and brick walls contrast with the water and city skyline.

What to See #

• Royal tombs and monuments: The royal burial chapels and array of tombs inside the church contain funerary monuments to Swedish monarchs and nobles dating principally from the 17th century onward.