Skogskyrkogården

Stockholm, Sweden

Skogskyrkogården (“The Woodland Cemetery”) is a cemetery founded in 1917. Its design reflects the development of architecture from national romantic style to mature functionalism. Skogskyrkogården came about following an international competition in 1915 for the design of a new cemetery in Enskede. The design of the young architects Gunnar Asplund and Sigurd Lewerentz was selected. Work began in 1917 on land that had been old gravel quarries that were overgrown with pine trees and was completed three years later. The architects' use of the natural landscape created an extraordinary environment of tranquil beauty that had a profound influence on cemetery design throughout the world.

The crematorium, with its remarkable Faith, Hope, and Holy Cross Chapels was Gunnar Asplund's final work of architecture, opened shortly before his passing in 1940. In 1994, Skogskyrkogården was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At the Tallum Pavilion, visitors can see an exhibition about the cemetery and the story of its origins and the two architects whose vision created it.

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4.7/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Ross Daniels (3 months ago)
We made our way by suburban train and spent an hour or so wandering this UNESCO Heritage cemetery. It’s very extensive with woodlands & a chapel which is beautiful. It’s a peaceful place.
T Z (4 months ago)
The largest cemetery Ive ever visited - need at least 2 hours. Also saw for the first time squirrel ate an entire pinecone in one sec! So cute to see the ground was covered with already-eaten pincecones... Toilet can be tricky to find as the ground is too colossal
Blair Woerfel (5 months ago)
Absolutely stunning walk through this UNESCO world heritage site. Couldn’t recommend it more! Each building was so beautiful and unique.
E.M.H. (5 months ago)
My visit to this cemetery took place in February 2022. My main reason for coming here was to pay respects to Greta Garbo. I had some idea of how big this place was, but upon my arrival, I was amazed amd astounded at how vast this cemetery really was. It is a sprawling oasis of calm and tranquility. It takes about 40 minutes from central Stockholm by train, but I could have sworn it seemed even less than that. From the station you must walk to the cemetery entrance, which is located to the east of the train platform (you can't miss the sign and wall). I spent most of my morning here just keeping the dead company and getting lost in my daydreams and music. It being winter, it wasn't crowded at all and I got to enjoy my surroundings to the fullest. There is some unique architecture to admire in the grounds. The entire area was well maintained although you must be careful walking along some of the paths in winter as some areas were icy. Exercise caution and watch your step. I enjoyed my visit and would love to return again one day. Tread lightly where the dead rest and remember you are on sacred ground.
Marques (6 months ago)
Beautifully landscaped cemetery, with ample opportunity to wander around and marvel at the mix of architecture. They have produced an audio guide that is very useful, plus there’s a visitor centre, although this wasn’t open when I visited. Plenty of information boards are available at the main entrance gate too. Would highly recommend on your visit to Stockholm. Very close to the T-bana too.
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