Uppsala is a hidden gem of Sweden and a trip here is certainly worthwhile.
Only 70 km separate Uppsala, Sweden’s fourth-largest city, from Stockholm’s downtown. As the home of the Archbishop of the Church of Sweden, Uppsala has served as the religious hub of Sweden since the 12th century. Up until the late 19th century, the coronation of the Swedish king was frequently held at this location. Uppsala is also home to the largest cathedral in Scandinavia. Uppsala University is the oldest university in Scandinavia, having been established in 1477. Carl Linnaeus, the originator of taxonomy, and Anders Celsius, creator of the centigrade temperature scale that now bears his name, are two of the numerous academics connected to the city.
Its renowned university greatly influences the city’s life. Students from all over Sweden and the world increase the city’s term-time population and give it a young, global vibe. Approximately 20% of its inhabitants are students. All things considered, the city is peaceful, easy to stroll through, has a slow pace, and is encircled by a verdant natural setting.
But let’s explore the best ways to discover the genuine tranquil and lively beauty of this Scandinavian city.
Walk along Fyris river
The banks of the Fyris River are the focal point of the city and the starting point for all walks in Uppsala. The river empties into Lake Mälaren after passing through the city and its banks are perfect for bicycling and walking. At the same time, there are several eateries and cafes overlooking the river where you may have a meal or a pleasant coffee break.
Charming bridges span the distance between the banks. The most picturesque of these is the Nybron Bridge, which connects the city to the Cathedral’s location. At the same time, there are a number of magnificent structures on both sides of the river. The Grand Hotell Hörnan and the majestic Upplands Museum building, which has unique exhibits on the county’s history, are unquestionably two of the most notable.
Admire Uppsala Cathedral
The Cathedral is the tallest church in the Nordic region. It stands at 118 metres and dates back to the late 13th century. Bricks produced close to the construction site were used to build it. On the other hand, the Cathedral’s front columns are composed of limestone. Visitors are impressed by the church’s stern, uncomplicated, yet magnificent appearance. For a long time following the Protestant Reformation, it served as the location for the coronation of Swedish monarchs. In addition, several archbishops are buried here, and many of its chapels have been transformed into monuments for Swedish monarchs.
One of the best collections of medieval church textiles in Europe may be found in the Cathedral’s Treasury, which is housed in the north tower. Among them, the Sture clothes are the only full men’s fashion garments to exist from the Renaissance. Also, Queen Margaret’s gold gown is the only intact evening gown from the Middle Ages in the world.
The church is especially well-known for its superb acoustics and its male choir, which traditionally enhances the rituals that take place inside. Being in the church when the choir sings and listening to these lovely voices of all ages fill the church’s magnificent domes in harmony is a very unique experience.
Explore the University grounds
The main buildings of Uppsala University are located in the open space surrounding the Cathedral. The University Hall (Universitetshuset in Swedish) is the university’s main structure and is located only a few metres from the church. It was finished in 1887 and was designed in the Beaux-Arts style of the Italian Renaissance. The statue of Erik Gustaf Geijer, a well-known historian and 19th-century university lecturer, is located in front of the elegant structure. John Börjesson, a sculptor, captured Geijer’s appearance during his lectures. Beneath him, a woman performs “Geijer’s Thoughts,” a musical composition. She was modeled after Agnes, Geijer’s daughter.
The Gustavianum, Uppsala University’s oldest surviving structure, is another notable landmark that is situated between the church and the main building. Constructed between 1622 and 1625, it served as the university’s principal structure from 1778 until 1887. However, from 1997 it has housed the university’s museum. Built in the 17th century as part of the medical school located there, the building’s most spectacular room is without a doubt the theatrum anatomicum, which is situated within a massive dome on its roof. This anatomical theatre is the second oldest one still standing in the world.
Lastly, the Carolina Rediviva, the main structure of the Uppsala University Library, is public building that will delight book enthusiasts. Some of the most significant library items are on display in an exhibition hall by the library’s entry hall. A first edition of Isaac Newton’s Philosophiae Naturalis Principia Mathematica, the Codex Argenteus, and the map Carta Marina are among the rare and impressive exhibits.
Discover the Runestone Circle
Runestones and rune carvings are an important and unique part of Swedish folk culture. For hundreds of years, warriors, families, or important events were immortalized on these slabs of inscribed stone. The University’s board chose to move the runestones, which were scattered over the Uppsala area, to the University Park. Many people believe that their relevance is diminished when they are removed from their natural surroundings. However, it is easier to learn about and understand their meaning as part of the University Park. It is therefore worthwhile to visit the park in order to find them and discover the secrets they hide.
Take a stroll in the city
The city that is growing beyond the Univeristy grounds is also a nice place to walk. The city centre stands out for its broad pedestrian avenues that are lined with retail malls, local stores, and dozens of foreign brand locations. Numerous contemporary cafes, restaurants, and fast-food establishments are located among the shops and can satisfy any need and taste.
The heart of the city is Stora Torget, the city’s main square, which is encircled by buildings that have been remarkably conserved. In contrast, the city’s major railway station, which is situated relatively near the city centre, dazzles with its contemporary design without detracting from the city’s unique identity.
Generally speaking, Uppsala’s centre is a harmonious combination of modern and historic structures that blend in effectively. Together with the city’s greenery and expansive views, the classic and the modern mingle perfectly to create a welcoming and livable environment for both locals and tourists.
Have traditional fika at Ofvandahls Hovkonditori
Originally called “Erik Andersson Konditori og Damkafé,” the cafe started in 1878 and changed its name to Ofvhandals in 1901. The cafe and the student community have a long-standing relationship. Ofvhandals established itself as a gathering place for university scholars, instructors, and students, as well as a vibrant forum for opinion sharing. It is hardly by chance that even the city’s contemporary students frequently choose its hospitable, albeit old-fashioned rooms for studying or for their fika.
You may sample all of the classic Swedish desserts in the cafe, including delectable chocolates, soups, and pies to go with your fika. But here, the Prinsesstarta is the speciality. It is a distinctive cake with a vanilla cream frosting, sugar cookie foundation, and green marzipan topping. Great coffee and a large selection of teas go hand in hand with all these treats.
Visit the smallest bakery in the world
A few metres from the river and next to the Guntherska pattiserie, a tiny work of art that features a bakery with working mice is concealed from the unwary onlooker. It is one of the works created by local artist Jekaterina Pertoft, whose snapshot depictions of this vibrant mouse society show its inhabitants at moments that are similar to those of city citizens. Even if this is her best-known piece, it’s still worthwhile checking out the other little windows on your city tour; it’s like going on a unique treasure hunt.
Uppsala is worth every minute you spend here
Everything mentioned above paints a picture of a city that is highly recommended for everyone travelling to Sweden. It is a city that is both serene and vibrant because of its youthful population. It boasts top-notch structures, a distinctive natural setting, and a wide variety of dining, shopping, and coffee options. A trip to Uppsala, a hidden treasure in Sweden, is unquestionably worthwhile.
