Explore the stunning St. Johannes Church, a magnificent example of Gothic Revival architecture nestled in the heart of Norrmalm. With its towering spires, meticulous stone carvings, and breathtaking stained glass, it offers a captivating dive into religious artistry.
S:t Johannes kyrka, or St. John’s Church, is a magnificent Gothic Revival church located in the Norrmalm district of Stockholm, Sweden. This architectural gem, completed in 1890, stands as a testament to the city’s rich religious and cultural heritage.
S:t Johannes Church seen towards the southeast, from Observatoriekullen in central Stockholm. Photo: I99pema (CC BY-SA 3.0)St. John's Church in Stockholm, a winter day in 2021. Photo: Sinikka Halme (CC BY-SA 4.0)
History
The church’s history dates back to 1651, when a wooden chapel was first built on the site. After several attempts to construct a stone church, including plans by King Gustav III in the 1770s, the current structure was finally realized in the late 19th century.
In 1883, architect Carl Möller won a competition with his neo-Gothic design, and construction began on September 14 of that year—exactly 100 years after the first attempt. The church was consecrated on Pentecost Sunday in 1890 by Archbishop Anton Niklas Sundberg, with King Oscar II in attendance.
Architecture and features
S:t Johannes Church is a striking example of neo-Gothic architecture.
The church’s 70-meter-high tower is visible from various parts of Stockholm.
It houses five church bells, including Sweden’s largest steel bell, weighing 2,400 kg.
The interior features a beautiful Gothic-style design with painted ceilings.
The church can accommodate up to 900 people.
The main portal of St. John's Church in Stockholm. Photo: FriskoKry (CC BY-SA 3.0)The interior of the beautiful St. John's Church in central Stockholm. Photo: Michael Caven (CC BY 2.0)Georg Carl von Döbeln's (1758-1820) grave at St. John's Church in Stockholm. Photo: Raphael Saulus (Public Domain)The church tower of St. John's Church, in a photo taken in 1913. Photo: Martin Olsson (Public Domain)
🌟Neo-Gothic Grandeur in a Quiet Grove
Tucked into a leafy park just steps from busy Sveavägen, S:t Johannes Church rises in majestic red brick with its soaring spire and pointed arches. Consecrated in 1890, it was designed in the Neo-Gothic style by Carl Möller to serve the rapidly growing Norrmalm district. Surrounded by trees and tranquility, the church blends city life with spiritual calm—a place where choral echoes and stained glass light offer respite in the heart of Stockholm.
Location and access
This church sits atop Brunkebergsåsen, offering visitors a unique vantage point in the city. The green line serves the nearest metro station, Rådmansgatan. Its central location makes it easy for tourists exploring Stockholm to access.
Recent developments
In an interesting turn of events, S:t Johannes Church is set to change hands. In late 2025, the Church of Sweden will transfer ownership to the Catholic Diocese of Stockholm. This transition reflects the evolving religious landscape of the city and the church’s recent role in serving diverse communities, including Polish and Ukrainian Catholic missions.
For tourists visiting Stockholm, S:t Johannes Church offers a unique blend of architectural beauty, historical significance, and contemporary relevance. In essence, whether you’re interested in religious architecture, Swedish history, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility in the bustling city, this church is a must-visit destination.
⛪A New Chapter for St. Johannes
Consecrated in 1890 by King Oscar II, St. Johannes Church stands as a majestic example of Gothic Revival architecture. In December 2024, it embarked on a surprising new chapter—being sold to the Catholic Diocese of Stockholm and set to reopen in 2025 as a Catholic church, reflecting the city’s evolving religious landscape and dedication to preserving its historic spiritual spaces.
S:t Johannes Church
S:t Johannes kyrka
