Christina Church

Christina Church, locally known as Kristine kyrka, stands as a testament to the rich history and architectural splendor of Jönköping, Sweden. This magnificent 17th-century church is not only a place of worship but also a cherished landmark that reflects the town's resilience and cultural heritage.

The Historical Significance of Christina Church

Christina Church was constructed between 1649 and 1673, during a period of significant change for Jönköping. The town had recently been relocated to the eastern side of the Hamnkanalen, and the church was built to replace the earlier city church, Jungfru Maria and Sankt Nikolaus Church, which had been destroyed by fire in 1612. The church is named after Queen Christina, who was the reigning monarch when the foundation stone was laid on July 24, 1649, coinciding with St. Christina's Day.

The original designs of the church are believed to have been drafted by Hans Fleming, a castle builder of repute. The construction utilized sandstone from Trånghalla, giving the church its distinctive and enduring facade. However, the church faced a significant setback when it was heavily damaged in the great city fire of February 6, 1790. Despite this, the church was meticulously restored, maintaining much of its original form and continuing to serve as a spiritual and cultural hub for the community.

Architectural Marvels

One of the most striking features of Christina Church is its tower, which was completed in 1686, several years after the rest of the building. This tower, along with the rest of the church, showcases the robust and elegant architectural style of the period. The church’s exterior is adorned with the warm hues of Trånghalla sandstone, and the structure exudes an aura of timeless grace.

Inside, the church is equally impressive. The northern wall is graced by an oil painting from 1722, created by the church painter Edvard Orm, depicting the crucifixion. On the southern wall hangs another beautiful painting from 1881 by Georg Pauli, a Jönköping native, illustrating angels making music at Christ's tomb. The altar piece, painted in 1738 by French artist P.C. Cazes, captures the adoration of the Magi, adding to the church's rich collection of religious art.

The Bells and Their Stories

Christina Church is also home to a fascinating set of bells, each with its own unique history. The original large bell, cast by Andreas Wetterholtz in Malmö in 1751, weighed an impressive 2816.53 kg. Unfortunately, this bell was destroyed in the 1790 fire. However, a new large bell was cast from the remnants of the old one by Jonas Magnus Fries in 1790. This bell carries inscriptions honoring those who contributed to its creation and a poignant verse reflecting on its rebirth from the ashes.

The smaller bell, also recast in 1790 by Jonas Magnus Fries, was funded by merchant Peter Gylling. It bears biblical quotes and a verse urging listeners to turn their hearts to God. These bells not only call the faithful to worship but also serve as historical artifacts that connect the present with the past.

The Organs of Christina Church

Christina Church boasts a rich musical heritage, with several notable organs having been housed within its walls over the centuries. The current gallery organ, built in 1912 by Åkerman & Lund, is one of Sweden's best-preserved romantic organs. It features 40 stops distributed across three manuals and pedal, with a total of 2144 pipes. The organ's facade dates back to an earlier instrument built by Gustaf Andersson in 1853, and although the facade pipes are now silent, the organ itself was meticulously restored in 2005 to its original configuration.

In addition to the gallery organ, the church also houses a smaller choir organ built in 2012 by German organ builder Kristian Wegscheider. This instrument, designed in the German Baroque style, features 27 stops and includes a cymbel star with six bells. It was inaugurated in September 2012 by Professor Hans Fagius, adding a contemporary touch to the church's rich musical tradition.

A Living Landmark

Today, Christina Church continues to be a vibrant part of Jönköping's community, hosting regular worship services, concerts, and cultural events. Its stunning architecture, rich history, and beautiful artworks make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring this charming Swedish town. Whether you're drawn by its spiritual significance, historical intrigue, or simply its serene beauty, Christina Church offers a deeply enriching experience that resonates with visitors from all walks of life.