Fors kyrka

Fors Church, or Fors kyrka as it is known in Swedish, stands proudly along the western bank of the Eskilstuna River, in the heart of Eskilstuna, Sweden. This church is not only the oldest in the Tunafors parish but also the second largest, making it a significant landmark in the area. With its rich history dating back to the mid-11th century, Fors Church is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in medieval architecture, religious history, or simply seeking a tranquil place to reflect.

The Origins of Fors Church

The story of Fors Church begins with Saint Eskil, an English monk who is credited with founding the church around the year 1000. Saint Eskil, after whom the town of Eskilstuna is named, chose this location for its strategic and picturesque setting by the river. The original structure was a Romanesque stone church, parts of which, including the northern and western walls, still stand today. These ancient walls, along with the church's porch, are the oldest surviving elements of the building.

Throughout the centuries, Fors Church has undergone numerous renovations and expansions. In the 1300s, the church was extended eastward and a tower was added. The 1600s saw significant modifications that gave the church much of its present appearance. The Lohe family, prominent patrons of the church, funded many of these renovations, including the construction of a family burial chapel between the northern transept and the choir, directly opposite the sacristy.

Architectural Highlights

Fors Church is a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture, with its long nave, three-sided choir, and transepts added in the 1650s. The church's tower, believed to have been constructed in the early 1400s, originally featured a simple gable roof. This tower served as both a lookout and a defensive structure against invaders approaching via the river. In 1676, the tower was crowned with the spire that remains today, bringing the tower's height to an impressive fifty meters. Together with the long nave, the church forms the shape of a Latin cross.

Interior Treasures

The interior of Fors Church is a treasure trove of historical artifacts and artistic masterpieces. The church's furnishings are predominantly old, with many sculptures, the oldest of which is a seated bishop from the 13th century. The baroque-style pulpit and altarpiece, donated by the Lohe family around 1655, are particularly noteworthy. The pulpit is adorned with wooden sculptures of the four evangelists—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—as well as Jesus Christ and Paul. The altarpiece features a 17th-century oil painting by the French artist Eustace Lesueur, depicting the Transfiguration of Christ. Above this painting is another, portraying God the Father, surrounded by paintings of the four evangelists with their respective symbols. At the very top of the altar are three child figures, with the central one holding a banner inscribed with GLORIA IN EXCELSIS DEO, meaning Glory to God in the highest.

The Organ and Its Evolution

The church's musical heritage is equally rich. The original organ gallery, donated in 1672 by the councilman Casper Grau, housed an organ built before 1773 with ten stops. In 1814, Pehr Zacharias Strand from Stockholm constructed a new organ with twelve stops. This organ was rebuilt and expanded in 1856 by Erik Adolf Setterquist from Hallsberg, who added new mechanisms and improved the tonal quality, despite incurring significant personal costs.

Subsequent renovations and expansions took place in 1921 by Åkerman & Lund, and again in 1937 by E.A. Setterquist & Son, bringing the organ to thirty-two stops. In 1974, Frederiksborg Orgelbyggeri built a new organ with modern mechanisms while preserving the facade from the 1814 organ. The current organ, built in 1999 by Walter Thür Orgelbyggen, features thirty-eight stops distributed across three manuals and a pedal, with the main facade dating back to 1814 and the rear positive added in 1999.

The Side Chapel Organ

In addition to the main organ, Fors Church also houses a side chapel organ, built in 1972 by Frederiksborg Orgelbyggeri. This mechanical organ adds to the church's rich musical tradition, offering a different tonal palette for various liturgical and musical needs.

A Living History

Fors Church is not just a relic of the past; it continues to be a vibrant part of the community. In 1987, a new Saint Eskil window was inaugurated in the northern transept, depicting the life story of Saint Eskil. This window, created by Bengt Olof Kälde, one of Europe's foremost church artists, adds a contemporary touch to the ancient church, bridging the gap between the past and the present.

Visitors to Fors Church can immerse themselves in centuries of history, marvel at the architectural beauty, and reflect on the spiritual significance of this sacred space. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a moment of peace, Fors Church in Eskilstuna offers a rich and rewarding experience.