German Church, Stockholm

The German Church (Tyska kyrkan), also known as Saint Gertrude's Church (Sankta Gertruds Kyrka), is a significant historic and cultural landmark in Stockholm. Established in the 1580s, it has served as the primary place of worship for the German-speaking community in Stockholm for over four centuries. Initially, the church was shared with Finnish parishioners, but it became exclusively a German ecclesiastical site in 1607. Since then, the church's carillon has filled the air of the Old Town with psalms each day, a tradition that continues to this day.

The church is particularly noted for its striking architecture. Its 96-meter steeple, completed in 1878, features a distinctive brick and copper design, crowned by Neo-Gothic gargoyles—an unusual but now iconic element in Swedish architecture. The southern portal is adorned with sandstone statues of Jesus and Moses, representing the New and Old Testaments, flanked by figures symbolizing Love, Hope, and Faith, crafted in the 1640s.

Inside, the church boasts a richly Baroque style. Large windows flood the white-vaulted interior with light, highlighting the angelic motifs adorning the ceiling. The marble flooring conceals the remnants of the original guild building's wine cellars, linking the church to its historical roots. A standout feature is the ten-meter Baroque altar, which commands attention within the sanctuary. The atrium’s stained-glass window, depicting Saint Gertrude holding a chalice and a church model, is another prominent feature, adding to the church's sacred atmosphere.

One of the church's most historically significant features is the "King's Gallery." This gallery, which includes a sacristy and overlooks painted windows from the early 20th century, is decorated with the monogram of King Charles XI and features a magnificent staircase and a painted ceiling, reflecting the church's deep connections to German history.

Beyond its architectural and historical significance, the German Church continues to serve as a cultural hub for Stockholm's German-speaking community, hosting regular services and preserving the traditions of its congregation. Its long-standing musical contributions further underscore its role as a cultural cornerstone in Stockholm.

Tip:
Check the schedule – you may be able to catch a musical performance.
Visitors can hear the carillon every day, at 8 am and 4 pm.
If timing allows, you may see the inside with good lighting and be treated to the spectacular stained glass scenes.