The Woodland Chapel

The Woodland Chapel is a small wooden structure in the forest without windows. Instead, light enters through an opening in the roof.

Photo: Mattias Ek.

In 1920, Skogskyrkogården was inaugurated with the Woodland Chapel, designed by Gunnar Asplund as the cemetery's first chapel. Situated in the forest, this small wooden building was considered both unusual and attractive at the time of its opening.

The light comes from above

The intimate chapel lacks windows. Daylight enters through an opening in an inner dome, while candles illuminate the rest of the space. The red limestone floor is thoughtfully designed to offer comfort and support. It provides a place to rest your eyes during moments when direct eye contact or viewing the coffin may be difficult. The chapel features minimal and discreet symbolism, accommodating various philosophies of life.

Indirect light flows through a circular skylight into the chapel. Photo: Mattias Ek.

Skulls and an Angel of Death

The chapel's decor includes skulls, a traditional symbol of death. Carl Milles’ sculpture “Angel of Death” is placed on the roof, which initially provoked protests from some individuals.

Snakes can symbolize both death and eternal life. Photo: Mattias Ek.

Explore the chapel online

You can explore the chapel through panoramic photography on Google Street View.

Parking

Free parking for up to four hours is available on Kapellslingan at the intersection with Vårsolens väg. There are also parking spaces reserved for the disabled.

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