Our Planet’s Landmarks Series #5
Two young architects, Asplund and Lewerentz, created Skogskyrkogarden or Woodland Cemetery between 1917 and 1920. An international design competition was held in 1915 for creating a new cemetery in Enskede, Stockholm, Sweden. It was their entry called Tallum that was selected in this competition.
Interestingly, the cemetery design blends vegetation and architectural elements as it was created on the site of former gravel pits overgrown with pine trees. It also takes advantage of irregularities in the site to create a landscape that is finely adapted to its function. As a result, it won’t be wrong to say it is a brilliant blend of terrain, vegetation, and purpose.
Skogskyrkogarden or Woodland Cemetery Stockholm Sweden
Notably, the clever use of the natural landscape created an extraordinary environment of tranquil beauty at Skogskyrkogarden. So much so it has had a profound influence on cemetery design throughout the world.
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Unlike most other cemeteries, which are
Furthermore, its 108-hectare landscape is surreal. As you enter, you find the crematorium to the left, a huge cross in front, and a meditation hill to the right. Just next to the cross is a large pond that adds to the sobriety and serenity of the cemetery.
The simplicity with which it blends in with the environment, the respect it has for its surroundings, and the sincerity with which it embraces its purpose has earned it a UNESCO World Heritage Sites listing.
Just behind the crematorium, you’ll also find the interred grave of Greta Garbo, the heartthrob of Hollywood in 1920s and 30s (she passed away in Manhattan).
