Deep in the heart of rural Småland, this whitewashed church boasts fascinating murals and ceiling paintings dating from the 13th Century. Dädesjö is considered one of the most interesting medieval churches in Sweden, primarily for its unique ceiling and wall artwork.

It is almost a miracle that the church is still standing. By the late 18th century, the church had become too small for the growing congregation. In 1793 work started on a larger and more modern building, just a stone's throw from the old church. The congregation resolved to demolish the old church and recycle the stone in the new church. On commencing the work the vestry and sanctuary were demolished. However, before the rest of the building was destroyed, a hastily convened parish meeting voted to stop the demolition and use what remained of the old building as a storehouse for tools and grain. The old building became forgotten for almost a hundred years. Then one summer's day in 1905, an inquisitive professor from the University of Lund made a closer inspection of this storehouse and discovered that it had originally been a medieval church. He found the wooden ceiling with its medieval paintings had survived. The church was classified as a unique and valuable historic monument and taken into public ownership to preserve the building and prevent further decay.

Well Preserved Murals and Ceiling Paintings

The architecture of 13th Century Dädesjö Church is Romanesque. All that remains today is the nave with its thick, whitewashed walls. Its decoration consisted of wall and ceiling paintings and stained glass windows.

The ceiling artwork is what has brought Dädesjö Church international fame. The paintings, dating from the late 13th Century were never painted over and are remarkably well preserved and very close to their original condition. The paintings tell the story of the Nativity - from the Annunciation and birth of Jesus to the massacre of the innocents in Bethlehem. Several scenes depict the life of Saint Stephen. Painted medallions frame all scenes.

The whitewash paintings on the walls illustrate the Passion and Crucifixion of Christ. The exterior of the church also has many fascinating medieval features too. For instance, the eaves are richly decorated with ornate engravings representing fantasy lions, dragons and other mythical creatures.

How to get there and opening hours

The church lies in the village of Dädesjö about 20 kilometres northeast of Växjö off Highway 23. It is open during the day all year.