Skogskyrkogården Cemetery

Skogskyrkogården Cemetery

This cemetery in Stockholm was designed by two young architects—Asplund and Lewerentz—and built between 1917 and 1920. They paved the ground with gravel and planted it with pine trees. The design combines vegetation, architectural features, and the irregularity of the terrain, merging the landscape with the cemetery’s function. It has had a profound influence on cemetery design in many countries around the world, and the entire site is regarded as one of the most important masterpieces of modernist architecture.

The two architects carried out the most comprehensive design deployment, from the entire scenic area down to every single light fixture. The entire Skogskyrkogården Cemetery is harmonious as a whole, blending nature and architecture. Due to numerous practical considerations, the architectural task had strict requirements: for example, cremation replacing burial was one of the principles the architects had to follow. The crematorium includes three ceremonial rooms—the Chapel of Faith, the Chapel of Hope, and the Chapel of the Holy Cross—located close to the main entrance of Skogskyrkogården. A massive granite cross standing alone in the grass enhances the beauty of the landscape. To the south of Skogskyrkogården, there is a small pavilion that hosts a permanent exhibition showcasing the story of the cemetery and the two architects.

Skogskyrkogården

Must-visit reason: One of the most important masterpieces of modernist architecture

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/region where the attraction is located: Sweden[Sweden]

Province/state where the attraction is located: Stockholm County [Stockholm County]