The new city of Kalmar was built on Kvarnholmen island in the mid-17th century. The transfer from the old town was largely completed by
1658. The new, fortified town was planned along Renaissance ideals. Accordingly, the church and town hall were constructed across from one another in the old town square (
Stortorget Kalmar). The material in the masonry consists of limestone from
Gotland. The vaults, portals and window coverings are made of brick. The roof was lined with copper plate. The cathedral was built without a dome and with high window openings. The cathedral was designed by
Nicodemus Tessin the Elder (1615–1681) and is one of the foremost examples of classical baroque architecture that was a breakthrough in Sweden. The design of Kalmar Cathedral reflects the complexities of modernisation, maintaining liturgical utility and tradition, and being mindful of the fortress-city requirements. Construction began in 1660, but was interrupted on several occasions, including with the outbreak of the
Scanian War (1675–1679). The work resumed after the war and Kalmar Cathedral was finally finished in 1703. ==Restorations==