Adolf Fredrik Church is a parish church in the Adolf Fredrik parish in the Diocese of Stockholm. The church can accommodate approximately 800 people and is located at the intersection of Sveavägen–Adolf Fredriks kyrkogata–Holländargatan–Kammakargatan in Stockholm.

The church was designed by the architect Baron Carl Fredrik Adelcrantz (1716-1796) and is known for its collection of fine artworks and for being the final resting place of many prominent individuals, including Prime Minister Olof Palme.

Adolf Fredrik’s Church was inaugurated in 1774

King Adolf Fredrik (1710-1771) laid the cornerstone of the church in 1768, hence the church’s namesake. Its inauguration took place on Sunday, November 27, 1774, officiated by Bishop Daniel Herweghr. Also in attendance were King Gustav III and Duke Karl, later known as Karl XIII, King Adolf Fredrik’s eldest sons.

The style and architecture of the church

The church is built in the so called Gustavian style with elements of Rococo. The Gustavian style, named after King Gustav III (1746-1792) of Sweden, emerged in the late 18th century as a Swedish interpretation of Neoclassicism. It is characterized by elegant simplicity, symmetry, and restrained ornamentation, drawing inspiration from classical Greek and Roman architecture. The style often features light colors, straight lines, and geometric shapes, creating a sense of refinement and sophistication. The interior was redesigned between 1893 and 1895, during which stucco and reliefs were added.

The exterior och the church is characterized by white plaster with copper-colored roofs, a black-painted dome, reliefs, and gold details. It is constructed in the shape of a Greek cross, with the arms of the cross extended to the east and west. The church is crowned by a dome, situated above the crossing. The interior also features predominantly white decor. The altarpiece, sculpted by Johan Tobias Sergel (1740-1814), depicts the Resurrection of Jesus. Another sculpture by Sergel in the church is the Cartesius Monument, erected in memory of the French scientist and philosopher René Descartes, also known as Cartesius. The monument was initiated by Gustav III and depicts Truth (a globe) being freed from Falsehood.

Adolf Frefrik Church: A well-known burial ground

In the cemetery, many well-known individuals rest, such as the sculptor Johan Tobias Sergel, the politician Olof Palme, as well as the member of the Swedish Academy Sven Hedin, and the actor Thor Modéen. Even René Descartes was buried in the cemetery from 1650 to 1666, after which his remains were transferred to France.