A simple wooden altar. That’s what first struck me about Vendelsö kyrka. But this unassuming detail tells a story. Welcome to Vendelsö kyrka a modern marvel of design nestled in the Swedish landscape.
Vendelsö kyrka isn’t your typical ancient cathedral. It’s a testament to mid-century modern architecture. Architect Rolf Bergh designed this intriguing building. He collaborated with Olov Hartman director of the Sigtuna Foundation. The church was consecrated in September 1967. It’s a prefabricated structure a unique ‘studio church’.
Its design is striking. It boasts a square base and a pyramid-shaped roof. A row of windows circles the roofline. Corner windows add to the unique geometric feel. The original building was a dark reddish color. However a renovation completed in November 2005 repainted it a bright white. The original buildings from 1969 apart from the main church were demolished. They were replaced with more functional facilities. This included a large church square and staff offices.
Inside Vendelsö kyrka you’ll find simple yet elegant fixtures. The altar is a plain oiled pine table. A wooden crucifix from Oberammergau hangs behind it. The pulpit is a slanted panel on a single pillar to the left of the altar. To the right sits the baptismal font. It’s a pine stand holding a hammered copper basin crafted by Erik Ekstedt. Elwing Brask created the unique candlestick and boat-shaped candelabra.
The church’s original organ was built by Grönlunds Orgelbyggeri AB in 1969. This instrument had six stops. It was sold in 2015. It now resides in Olsfors mission church in Bollebygd. A three-manual digital Viscount organ replaced it.
Vendelsö kyrka is more than just a building. It’s a story of collaboration creativity and adaptation. It’s a modern church that blends seamlessly with its surroundings. It demonstrates the ongoing evolution of religious spaces. This simple church with its modern design continues to serve its community. It has adapted and grown to meet the needs of its parishioners for decades. Vendelsö kyrka a place of worship and a testament to architectural ingenuity.