Religion in Sweden is characterized by historical Lutheran traditions alongside substantial secularization and growing religious diversity.
## Historical background - The **Church of Sweden** (*Svenska kyrkan*), historically Lutheran, was for centuries the state church. - It was formally separated from the state in **2000**, but remains the country’s largest Christian denomination.
## Major religious communities - **Church of Sweden** — the largest faith body, with parishes across the country and many historic churches. - **Roman Catholic Church** — present nationwide, especially in urban areas and among immigrant communities. - **Free churches and Protestant communities** — including Baptist, Pentecostal, Mission Covenant, and Evangelical congregations. - **Eastern Orthodox and Oriental Orthodox churches** — serving several diaspora communities. - **Islam** — one of the largest minority religions, with mosques and Islamic organizations in major cities. - **Judaism** — historic communities especially in Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö. - **Buddhist, Hindu, Sikh, and other religious communities** — present mainly in larger urban centers.
## Religious landscape - Sweden is widely considered one of the more secular countries in Europe in terms of regular worship attendance. - At the same time, religious buildings and holidays remain culturally important. - Christian holidays such as Christmas and Easter are major public observances, while secular midsummer traditions are also highly significant.
## Notable religious sites - **Uppsala Cathedral** - **Lund Cathedral** - Historic churches across Gotland and rural provinces - Synagogues and mosques in major cities - Sámi spiritual heritage also remains an important cultural topic in northern Sweden
## Community role Religious organizations in Sweden often contribute to: - Social support and charity - Refugee and migrant assistance - Youth programming - Elderly support - Interfaith dialog
