Spånga Church

The oldest part of the Spånga Church origins from the time period 1175-1200. Large reconstructions and enhancements took place during the 14th century and the 15th century. Baron Gustaf Bonde (1620-1667), owner of the nearby Hässelby castle, made considerable donations to the church. After his death a grave choir, drawn by the architect Nicodemus Tessin the Elder, was attached as a continuation of the church, in which he and his descendants are buried. The church was latest renovated 1953–1955.

The church also contains other historical monuments, such as several fresco paintings from the Middle Ages. The first church paintings are probably from the 14th century, when the long nave was built. These were mostly abstract decorations, geometrical patterns and ornaments. Paintings from the early 15th century are interpreted as biblical motives from the Old Testament, the prophets Elijah and Elisha, but with landscape, houses, clothing and tools common at the time of painting.

There is a granite rune stone, dated from the Viking era, standing outside the church. On one side the stone has an runic inscription within bands with an interior Christian cross design, and on the other side it has a second cross. It is classified as being carved in runestone style RAK, which is the oldest style.

References:

• Wikipedia

Address

Spånga kyrkväg 485, Stockholm, Sweden

Details

Founded: 1175-1200
Category: Religious sites in Sweden
Historical period: Consolidation (Sweden)