Sundbybergs Kyrka is a prominent church located in central Sundbyberg, Stockholm, Sweden. Constructed between 1909 and 1911, it was officially inaugurated on June 4, 1911. The church was designed by Swedish architect Axel Sjögren (1877–1962), whose work reflects the Swedish National Romantic style combined with influences of Art Nouveau (Jugendstil). Sjögren, inspired by architect Carl Bergsten’s Hjorthagskyrkan in Stockholm, created his only known church design with Sundbybergs Kyrka.
Architectural Style and Exterior
The church is a three-aisled basilica oriented east to west, featuring a distinctive southwest tower. Perched on a wooded hill in Kyrkoparken, the building combines roughly hewn granite foundations with grayish-white plaster walls, reflecting traditional Swedish architecture and Jugendstil influences. A significant renovation in the 1960s by architect Åke Porne updated and modernized parts of the exterior, removing some original Jugendstil details.
Interior and Decoration
The interior of Sundbybergs Kyrka is noted for its spaciousness, vaulted ceilings, and abundant natural light creating a reverent atmosphere. Swedish artist Filip Månsson decorated the church interior, including murals in the apse painted in a National Romantic style. The altarpiece is a stained glass window by renowned artist Olle Hjortzberg, depicting the Resurrection of Christ, a powerful symbol showing Christ rising and pointing heavenward while holding a scepter.
Other interior artworks include murals by Jose Samson, such as the “Hymn to Creation,” and original furnishings by Sjögren himself, including the elaborately decorated pulpit and baptismal font made of gray-white Ekeberg marble. A large crucifix carved by Carl Hyllengren hangs within the church, adding to its historic ambiance.
Historical Context
Sundbybergs Kyrka was commissioned during Sundbyberg’s establishment as an independent parish, separating from Bromma. The architectural competition pitched Sjögren’s modern National Romantic design against Gustaf Hermansson’s Neo-Gothic proposal. The choice of Sjögren’s design marked a progressive shift for Swedish church architecture in the early 20th century.
Events and Community Role
Today, Sundbybergs Kyrka remains a central spiritual and cultural venue for the Sundbyberg Parish, hosting regular worship services, baptisms, weddings, funerals, and seasonal religious celebrations. The church is also known for its vibrant concert series, utilizing its modern digitally programmable organ installed in 2007, replacing the original organ from 1911.
Grounds and Surroundings
The church is situated in Kyrkoparken, a natural park with tall pines and natural vegetation, offering a tranquil setting amidst urban Sundbyberg. The grounds preserve a balance between historic preservation and natural beauty, making it a cherished refuge for locals and visitors.