Old Uppsala Church

UppsalaSweden 59° N · 17° E Updated Jun 2025

Old Uppsala Church (Gamla Uppsala kyrka) stands as a profound emblem of Sweden’s layered spiritual and cultural history, situated in Gamla Uppsala – a site…

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Old Uppsala Church
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Introduction: The Legacy of Old Uppsala Church

Old Uppsala Church (Gamla Uppsala kyrka) is one of Sweden’s most significant spiritual and historical landmarks. Located in Gamla Uppsala just north of modern Uppsala, the church stands on sacred ground that has been a center of religious, political, and cultural power since the Viking Age. From its beginnings near the legendary pagan Temple of Uppsala—once Scandinavia’s most revered Norse religious center—to its transformation as Sweden’s first archbishopric in the 12th century, Old Uppsala Church encapsulates over a millennium of Swedish history. Its proximity to the monumental Royal Mounds, believed to be burial sites of ancient Swedish kings, further highlights its enduring importance (World History Encyclopedia; thecrazytourist.com).

Today, Old Uppsala Church offers visitors a window into Sweden’s religious transition from paganism to Christianity, and provides access to centuries-old architecture, remarkable medieval art, and a landscape rich in archaeological treasures. This comprehensive guide details everything you need to know about visiting hours, tickets, accessibility, guided tours, and nearby attractions for a rewarding experience at this iconic site (IBN Battuta Travel; Lonely Planet).

Engraving of the church at Gamla Uppsala from 1694
Engraving of the church at Gamla Uppsala made in Stockholm in 1694, published in volume one of Suecia antiqua et hodierna, cropped from image I-63.
Old Uppsala Church in Sweden as seen in 1912
Photograph of Gamla Uppsala kyrka (Old Uppsala Church) in Sweden, depicting its appearance in 1912. Image sourced from the 1912 book 'Ur vår äldsta bok' by Natanael Beckman, page 39.
Original floorplan of Gamla Uppsala kyrka (Old Uppsala Church) in Sweden from 1912 book
Historic original floorplan of Gamla Uppsala kyrka (Old Uppsala Church) in Sweden, featured in the 1912 book 'Ur vår äldsta bok' by Natanael Beckman, showing detailed architectural layout.
Gamla Uppsala Church southeast view
Southeast view of Gamla Uppsala Church, a historic church located in Gamla Uppsala, Sweden, showcasing its traditional architecture and historical significance.
Gamla Uppsala Church in Old Uppsala, Uppland, Sweden, historic 11th-century church
Historic Gamla Uppsala Church in Old Uppsala, Uppland, Sweden, dating back to the 11th century. Site of ancient pagan temple and central location for cult, market, and justice in old Swedish realm, shown in glass plate negative format.
Historic Gamla Uppsala Church in Sweden under a bright blue sky
View of the historic Gamla Uppsala Church, a medieval church located in Uppsala, Sweden, captured on a sunny day with clear blue skies.
Ancient Gamla Uppsala Church surrounded by greenery under a blue sky
View of Gamla Uppsala Church, a historic stone church located in Uppsala, Sweden, surrounded by lush trees and greenery on a clear day
Exterior view of Gamla Uppsala Church with surrounding landscape
Situationsplan of Gamla Uppsala Church from Monumenta Uplandica by Peringskiöld, showing the exterior and surrounding area, featured on page 152 after Atlantica.
Architectural floor plan of an old church building from Monumenta Uplandica by Peringskiöld
Detailed architectural floor plan of an old church building taken from Monumenta Uplandica by Peringskiöld, showcasing historical church design.
Old photograph of Gamla Uppsala Church from the 1600s showing its exterior
Historical image of Gamla Uppsala Church exterior from the 1600s, sourced from Monumenta Uplandica by Peringskiöld, depicting the church's architecture during that period.
Exterior view of Gamla Uppsala Church from the 1100s
Historic exterior of Gamla Uppsala Church as documented from the 1100s, showcasing ancient architectural elements and cultural heritage.
Historic view of Gamla Uppsala Church exterior from the 1600s copper engraving
Copper engraving depicting the exterior of Gamla Uppsala Church as it appeared in the 1600s, documented by Riksantikvarieämbetet for historical reference.

From Pagan Temple to Christian Church

The site of Old Uppsala Church has been sacred for centuries. Before Christianity, Gamla Uppsala was home to the famed Temple of Uppsala, described by chroniclers as a grand, gold-adorned sanctuary dedicated to the Norse gods Odin, Thor, and Freyr. Major pagan festivals and sacrifices drew worshippers from across Scandinavia, reinforcing its role as the region’s spiritual heart (thehiddennorth.com; World History Encyclopedia).

Following Sweden’s gradual Christianization, the temple was replaced in the 12th century by a stone church, symbolizing a new era. Old Uppsala Church became the seat of the Swedish archbishopric in 1164, solidifying its ecclesiastical authority (thehiddennorth.com).

The Royal Mounds and Swedish Identity

The landscape surrounding Old Uppsala Church is dominated by three monumental Royal Mounds, believed to be the burial sites of legendary kings from the semi-mythical Yngling dynasty. These mounds highlight the site’s ancient political significance and its deep connection to Norse mythology. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area once held thousands of burial mounds and ritual sites, underlining its central role in early Swedish society (thecrazytourist.com; explorsweden.com).

Medieval Transformations

After a destructive fire in 1240, the church was reduced in size, with only the choir and central tower remaining from the original cathedral. By 1273, the archbishopric moved to modern Uppsala, but Old Uppsala Church continued to serve as a parish church and a destination for pilgrims. Its centuries-old frescoes, runestones, and wooden sculptures reflect its layered history (trip101.com; SpottingHistory).

Visiting Old Uppsala Church: Essential Information

Visiting Hours

  • Typical hours 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily (may be extended during summer or for special events).
  • Recommendation Confirm current opening hours on the official Upplandsmuseet website before visiting.

Tickets and Entry

  • Admission Free entry to the church.
  • Guided tours May require advance booking and a ticket fee, especially for groups or special exhibitions (Veronika’s Adventure).
  • Nearby museum Entry to the Gamla Uppsala Museum is ticketed (150 SEK for adults, 120 SEK for students/seniors, free for children under 19).

Accessibility

  • Facilities Ramps, accessible toilets, and automated doors are available at the nearby museum.
  • Considerations Some areas inside the church have uneven floors; outdoor paths around the mounds may be challenging.
  • Assistance Contact the church or museum in advance for specific mobility needs (IBN Battuta Travel).

Guided Tours and Events

  • Guided tours Highly recommended for historical context, can be booked via the museum or tourism office.
  • Events Look for medieval festivals, concerts, and religious ceremonies, especially in summer (Secret Attractions).

Getting There

  • Location Ärnavägen, 754 40 Uppsala, about 5 km north of central Uppsala.
  • Transport Reachable by local bus from Stora Torget, by bicycle along Eriksleden pilgrims’ path, or by car (free parking available nearby).

Architectural and Artistic Highlights

Exterior and Interior Features

  • Romanesque architecture Thick stone walls, rounded windows, and a sturdy, fortress-like silhouette mark its 12th-century origins (SpottingHistory).
  • Gothic vaults 15th-century vaults with preserved chalk paintings add to the church’s visual richness.
  • Interior A single nave, central tower, and wooden furnishings create an atmosphere of serene antiquity.

Medieval Artifacts and Tombs

  • Crucifixes Three medieval wooden crucifixes from the 12th, 13th, and 15th centuries are among the church’s treasures.
  • Tombs Burial place of Archbishop Valerius and formerly King Eric IX (Saint Eric), with a churchyard containing graves over a millennium old (Living Nomads).

Archaeological Context

  • Runestones The Uppland Runic Inscription 979, with a ship motif, is displayed near the church entrance.
  • Artifacts Medieval liturgical vessels and fragments of earlier furnishings are sometimes shown during tours.
  • Museum displays The adjacent Gamla Uppsala Museum houses Viking-age jewelry, weapons, and interactive models (Upplandsturen; Life in Norway).

Visitor Experience and Practical Tips

Photography and Preservation

  • Photography Allowed inside the church; be respectful during services. Flash and artifact handling are prohibited (Veronika’s Adventure).
  • Preservation Do not touch artifacts to ensure their continued protection.

Facilities and Accessibility

  • Amenities Restrooms, a café, and a museum shop are available nearby.
  • Accessibility Most indoor facilities are accessible, but some outdoor paths may be uneven.

Nearby Attractions and Complementary Visits

The Royal Mounds

  • Explore three large 6th-century burial mounds, believed to be the graves of ancient Swedish kings—icons of Swedish national identity (Gamla Uppsala Museum).

Gamla Uppsala Museum

  • Offers exhibitions on burial mounds, the transition from paganism to Christianity, and Viking Age life. Tickets required (Upplandsmuseet).

Disagården Open-Air Museum

  • Open in summer, displaying traditional Uppland farmsteads and hosting seasonal events (Upplandsmuseet).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Old Uppsala Church’s visiting hours?
A: Generally 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but check the official site for seasonal or event-related changes.

Q: Is there a fee to visit Old Uppsala Church?
A: No, entry is free. Guided tours and museum visits may require tickets.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, book through the Gamla Uppsala Museum or tourism offices.

Q: Is the church accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, with ramps and accessible toilets at the museum; some paths may be uneven.

Q: How do I get to Old Uppsala Church from central Uppsala?
A: By local bus, bicycle, or car; parking and bike racks are available.

Discover More

  • Before you go Confirm visiting hours and tour availability.
  • Travel apps Download the Audiala app for audio guides and interactive maps.
  • Stay informed Follow official tourism and museum sites for updates on events and exhibitions.
  • Explore more Combine your visit with walks among the Royal Mounds, a stop at the museum, and, if time allows, other Uppsala historical sites like the Uppsala Cathedral.

Summary

Old Uppsala Church is not only an architectural relic but a living narrative of Sweden’s journey from Norse paganism to Christian medieval society. Its layered history, rich archaeological context, and vibrant cultural legacy make it one of Scandinavia’s most treasured historical sites. With free admission, accessible facilities, and proximity to other key attractions, Old Uppsala Church offers every visitor a profound connection to Sweden’s past. Plan your visit today, and immerse yourself in the myths, faith, and history that converge in the heart of Uppsala.

Next stop

3 min walk Gamla Uppsala Read on →