Kalmar Cathedral

Kalmar Cathedral, known locally as Kalmar domkyrka, stands as a testament to the rich history and architectural splendor of Kalmar, Sweden. Nestled in the heart of Stortorget on Kvarnholmen, this magnificent structure is not just a place of worship but also a beacon of the town's storied past and cultural heritage.

The Historical Significance of Kalmar Cathedral

Kalmar's strategic location by the Baltic Sea made it one of Sweden's most important cities during the medieval period. The area was a hub of activity, with connections to the German Hanseatic League and serving as the meeting place for the formation of the Kalmar Union. However, the city faced numerous challenges, including the devastating Kalmar War of 1611-1613, which led to significant destruction.

In 1640, the Swedish Council decided to relocate the city to Kvarnholmen for defensive reasons. This move also necessitated the construction of a new church, as the medieval church, known as Storkyrkan or Bykyrkan, had suffered extensive damage during the war. The new church, which would become Kalmar Cathedral, was built in three stages under the reigns of three kings named Karl, earning it the name Karls domkyrka upon its consecration.

Architectural Marvel of Kalmar Cathedral

Designed by the renowned castle architect Nicodemus Tessin the Elder, Kalmar Cathedral is a stunning example of modified Baroque architecture. Tessin drew inspiration from Roman churches such as Il Gesù, Sant'Agnese in Agone, and Santa Susanna. The cathedral's exterior is characterized by high windows and a lack of a dome, setting it apart from traditional Baroque structures.

The cathedral is built in an elongated cross shape, with apses in the east and west and cross arms in the north and south. The cross arms, adorned with temple gables crowned with candelabras, are flanked by four towers with lanterns. The facade is richly decorated with pilasters and rests on a high granite base with limestone elements. The walls are constructed from Öland limestone, with Gotland limestone used for details and decorations. The roof, covered in copper, adds to the building's grandeur.

The cathedral's three entrances, located in the north, south, and west, each have distinct portals. The southern and western portals date back to the original construction period, while the northern portal was added in 1834. The exterior walls are painted in a light yellow color, with light gray accents around the openings, and the pilasters and cornices are left unpainted, showcasing their natural stone texture.

Restorations Through the Ages

Over the centuries, Kalmar Cathedral has undergone several significant restorations. In 1783, a major restoration project repaired the masonry and gave the exterior a light yellow hue, with the pilasters and stone details painted light gray. The decorations on the gables and towers were gilded, and the building's base was painted red. Subsequent restorations in 1790, 1800, and 1831-1834 addressed various structural and aesthetic needs, ensuring the cathedral's preservation.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, further restorations were carried out, including the addition of new gallery furnishings and the replacement of the roof with copper sheeting. The most recent restoration, completed between 2005 and 2011, involved extensive exterior and interior work, including roof replacement, stone restoration, facade painting, and the conservation of interior furnishings.

Exploring the Interior of Kalmar Cathedral

The interior of Kalmar Cathedral is a breathtaking blend of historical and artistic elements. The spacious nave, with its wide, white vaults and side galleries, reflects the grandeur of Sweden's Great Power era. Despite numerous restorations, the cathedral has retained much of its original character.

The altar, created in 1712 by Kaspar Schröder and Jacob Sauerberg based on a design by Nicodemus Tessin the Younger, is a masterpiece of Baroque art. It features a tripartite structure symbolizing the Holy Trinity, with a golden panel depicting God as the Creator, flanked by allegorical figures representing Faith and Grace. The large altarpiece, likely painted by David von Krafft, is a mirrored copy of Charles Le Brun's Descente de croix (The Descent from the Cross).

The richly carved pulpit, believed to be a war trophy from the mid-17th century, is another highlight. It features five panels depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ, surrounded by figures of the apostles. The pulpit is supported by a carved figure of Saint Christopher, Kalmar's patron saint.

The baptismal font, crafted in 1963 from gray Öland sandstone, is shaped like a ship, symbolizing the journey of faith. The font's brass lid, adorned with three sails, was created by goldsmith Kurt Landgren. The font was originally located in the chancel but has since been moved to the southwestern part of the nave, where the church square is located.

The cathedral also houses numerous gravestones from the 17th and 18th centuries, as well as a wealth of epitaphs and funeral shields. The most recent restoration added a freestanding central altar covered in gold leaf and topped with a slab of red Öland stone, along with a movable baptismal font and an ambo, both featuring intricate, laser-cut designs.

A Timeless Symbol of Kalmar

Kalmar Cathedral is more than just a historic building; it is a symbol of the city's resilience and cultural heritage. Its walls tell the story of Kalmar's past, from its medieval origins to its role in Sweden's Great Power era. Visiting this architectural gem offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of history that has shaped Kalmar and continues to inspire its future.