Katarina Church, located atop Katarinaberget (“Katarina Hill“), is an iconic symbol of Södermalm, one of Stockholm’s most vibrant and multifaceted neighborhoods. With its impressive dome and decorative facades, Katarina Church is a sight to behold both up close and from a distance.

The church has a history marked by grandeur and setbacks. The name “Katarina Church” stems from Princess Katarina (1584–1638), who was the mother of the Swedish King Karl X Gustav (1622 –1660). The church was named in her honor. It was completed in 1695 and quickly became a focal point for faith and community in Stockholm.

However, its journey has been long and challenging, marked by two devastating fires.

The first fire in 1723

On May 1, 1723, a terrible fire ravaged not only Katarina Church but also a significant part of the surrounding buildings. Architect Göran Josuae Adelcrantz was tasked with rebuilding the church. The result was an improved version with a larger and impressive tower with eight sides. The renovated and improved church was inaugurated again on October 18, 1724.

The second fire in 1990

On the night of May 17, 1990, another fire raged in Katarina Church. The church tower collapsed and pierced through the church vault. Only the crossbeams and outer walls remained after the fire. Fortunately, rescue personnel managed to save church silver and valuable textiles from the flames.

The Katarina Churchyard

The Katarina Churchyard as it appears today, was established already when Katarina Church was built. In the 1710s, the first plantings were made, but it was difficult to get anything to grow in the harsh environment, and several new plantings were made. It wasn’t until the 1780s, with a regulation change, that the soil layer was increased, and large quantities of trees were planted. Famous individuals buried at Katarina Churchyard include Cornelis Vreeswijk, Anna Lindh, Per Anders Fogelström, Putte Wickman, and Gösta Ekman.