A silent sentinel stands tall. It is the chapel at Vasterberga begravningsplats. This is Vasterberga Cemetery. Established in the late 1800s it initially served as an extension of Brannkyrka Church’s graveyard. Back then it was known as Brannkyrka’s New Cemetery. Imagine the bustling activity as families laid their loved ones to rest. This peaceful place wasn’t always so tranquil.
Vasterberga Cemetery occupies a long narrow space. It lies west of the Vastra stambanan railway line just north of Brannkyrka Church. The old road to Vasterberga farm passed nearby. The cemetery’s elongated shape and many birch trees create a striking visual.
In 1898 architect Konrad Elmeus designed a chapel. The chapel is built of red brick in a neo-Gothic style. A lime-wash painting adorns the altar wall. It was created by Torsten Nordberg in 1947. A bell tower was added later. In 1960 an underground burial vault was built adjacent to the chapel.
Today Vasterberga begravningsplats covers 4.5 hectares. It holds nearly 5000 graves. Burial is through the lowering of caskets and urns into individual plots. These plots are reserved for those who were registered in Stockholm at the time of their death. Currently no more casket graves are available.
So take a moment. Reflect on the stories etched into the headstones here at Vasterberga begravningsplats. Each stone whispers tales of lives lived and loved in Stockholm. This quiet place offers a glimpse into the city’s past. The stories of those who rest here are an integral part of Stockholm’s history. This is Vasterberga begravningsplats. Remember them.