Tomb of Gustav I Vasa and his Consorts
by BOY, Willem, Red and white alabaster, 277 x 136 cm
King Gustav Vasa, the founder of the Vasa Dyansty and unifier of Sweden in the 16th century, is buried in the chapel behind the main altar. Uppsala Cathedral is the burial site for other members of the royal family and many famous Swedes. Nearly a decade before his death, the King had expressed a wish to be buried in the cathedral. He is buried with his three wives, although only two are depicted on the sarcophagus designed by Willem Boy. The king and his wives are interred in what was once the Chapel of the Virgin Mary.