Östra Ryds Kyrka

On a verdant hill overlooking the picturesque Kyrkviken Bay stands Östra Ryds Kyrka. This charming church, with its yellow-plastered brick walls and sheet-metal roof, has borne silent witness to centuries of history. Östra Ryds Kyrka’s story is deeply entwined with Rydboholm Castle, a grand estate nearby. A long avenue, once traversed by lords and ladies, connects these two historical gems. The church we see today began its life around 1430, thanks to Anund Sture, then owner of Rydboholm Castle. His legacy is etched into the very fabric of Östra Ryds Kyrka, his name inscribed on the arches of the choir vault. Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by the scent of old wood and the hushed reverence of ages past. The oldest part of Östra Ryds Kyrka is the sacristy, a small room dating back to 1300. Imagine the secrets whispered within its ancient walls. In the 17th century, the church underwent a dramatic transformation. Two transepts, wings to the north and south, were added, lending it the shape of a cross. A grand burial chapel, commissioned by the influential Brahe family, was constructed. Inside, a magnificent wrought-iron grate separates the chapel from the rest of the church. But Östra Ryds Kyrka holds more than just architectural marvels. Its interior is a testament to the generosity of the Brahe family. A unique collection of paintings, gifts from the family, grace its walls. The oldest of these date back to the 16th century, offering us glimpses into the artistic sensibilities of a bygone era. As you stand before this serene house of worship, you stand on the shoulders of history. The echoes of centuries whisper around you, a testament to the enduring spirit of Östra Ryds Kyrka.