CathedralLund

Lund Cathedral

Lund Cathedral

Church

Lund Cathedral, an impressive sacred building in southern Sweden, is an outstanding example of Romanesque architecture and is considered the oldest cathedral in Scandinavia. It is located in the historical province of Scania and has shaped the cityscape of Lund for centuries.

History+

The origins of the cathedral date back to 1085, when King Canute the Holy initiated a bishop's church on this site and, with generous donations, laid the foundation for a significant cathedral chapter. In 1103, Lund was elevated to the ecclesiastical center of Scandinavia, and the construction of the current cathedral began. The crypt was consecrated as early as 1123, followed by the high altar in 1145 by Archbishop Eskil. The distinctive towers received their current appearance through a design by Helgo Zettervall in 1863. Since its construction, the cathedral has served as the bishop's church of the Diocese of Lund and survived the Reformation as one of the few places of worship in the city. After the Peace of Roskilde in 1658, Lund became Swedish, and the cathedral played an important role in integrating Scania into the kingdom.

Location+

Lund Cathedral is located in the city of Lund, in the district of Lund in the region of Scania, Sweden, at an elevation of approximately 41 meters above sea level. It is situated in the heart of the medieval city center.

On site+

Today, Lund Cathedral continues to serve as an active church. Visitors can admire the impressive Romanesque architecture, including the spacious crypt and the elaborate choir stalls from the 14th century. A special feature is the astronomical clock Horologium mirabile Lundense from the late 14th century, which plays a carillon at certain times and shows a procession of the Three Wise Men. Sweden's largest church organ with 101 stops can also be found in the cathedral.

Nearby+
  • Svenstorp Castle (castle), approx. 7.9 km away
  • Alnarp Castle (castle), approx. 8.9 km away
  • Örtofta Castle (castle), approx. 9.5 km away
  • Viderup Castle (castle), approx. 10.1 km away

Take Mobile History with you

You are reading this text for free. Premium adds what matters on the road: descriptions read aloud, sites found through your camera, whole regions taken offline.

  • Every description, including the ~17,700 Premium sites
  • Audio guide: have descriptions read to you on location
  • AR finder: see sites through your camera, with distance and bearing
  • Unlimited saved sites

14 days free, then from €2.99 a month. Cancel anytime.

Source: Wikipedia · Licence: CC BY-SA 4.0 · Image: Rainer Gindele

This description draws on the facts documented in the linked Wikipedia article; Wikipedia content is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Wording and editing: Mobile History.

Location: 55.7041, 13.1936