Uppsala is fascinating for those interested in religious history. Formerly the biggest pagan worship site in Sweden, it became the main centre for Christianity in the country after the conversion of the locals by missionaries. Today it is home to the largest cathedral in Scandinavia, a Gothic construction with towers nearly 120m tall.
If you’ve hired a car for your stay then it makes for a fascinating visit. Near to the cathedral is the Gustavianum museum which has a detailed history of the city as well as other interesting exhibits.
Uppsala Mini Guide
Why Would I Have Heard of Uppsala?
Although only the fourth biggest city in Sweden it’s important as the centre of the country’s religious life. No one can go to Uppsala without at least seeing the monumental cathedral with its huge towers. The city was once an important pagan site and the remains of the Temple of Uppsala remind you of the contrasts between the old city of Gamla Uppsala and the modern city.
What is There to See in the City?
The cathedral has to be the main place to visit and it is as interesting inside as it is breath-taking on the exterior. The main features on the inside are the tombs of notable Swedes including Carolus Linnaeus, the famous botanist and those of the Swedish kings and queens. Today it still remains the burial place of the Swedish royals. A trip out to Gamla Uppsala is fascinating too for there you’ll find the burial mounds of Vikings, the place of worship from pagan times and the remains of the first Uppsala Cathedral, built on the pagan site but destroyed by fire in the 12th century.
What’s the Best Way of Getting to Uppsala?
There are two choices of airport, Stockholm-Arlanda, if you want to arrive at the closest airport. It’s 20 miles from the city and a train service connects the two taking 20 minutes for the journey. For a cheaper option, budget airlines fly into Stockholm-Vasterias which, although 50 miles away is still relatively quick for the journey to Uppsala on the bus.
What’s the Nightlife Like?
It’s very good really because of the large student population. There are many cheap restaurants and bars catering for the needs of the poor students but also some very eclectic bars and nightclubs to tempt you to part with your Krona.
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