Stockholm and Uppsala, the memory of the Vikings.
Stockholm and Uppsala: two jewels of Sweden.
Sweden, that Nordic country of vast wilderness and exceptional cultural richness, is home to two iconic cities that capture the imagination of travelers the world over: Stockholm and Uppsala.
Stockholm: the Venice of the North.
Nicknamed the “Venice of the North”, Stockholm is the capital of Sweden and one of Europe’s most beautiful and dynamic cities. Situated on fourteen islands, the city is surrounded by Lake Mälaren and the Baltic Sea, giving it a breathtaking natural setting. Its cobbled streets, colorful buildings and historic architecture make it an architectural gem. The heart of Stockholm, the old town of Gamla Stan, is a maze of picturesque alleyways lined with craft stores and inviting cafés. The Royal Palace, with its imposing Baroque façade, is a must-see, as is Stockholm Cathedral, which majestically dominates the city skyline. Although Stockholm’s architecture is exceptional, we’re inevitably drawn back to the water’s edge. Water is everywhere in this city, so it’s hard to escape it, and it’s best to be equipped for walking, as the strolls can be long if you take into account the detours to reach the many islands dotted around Stockholm.
Uppsala: cradle of knowledge.
Located just an hour’s drive north of Stockholm, Uppsala is a dynamic and historic university town, steeped in an intellectual and creative atmosphere. Founded in the 13th century, Uppsala is one of Sweden’s oldest cities and home to the country’s oldest university, Uppsala University, founded in 1477. Uppsala’s picturesque city center is dominated by the majestic Uppsala Cathedral, Scandinavia’s largest church, whose imposing towers rise proudly into the sky. The cobbled streets lined with colorful houses, lively cafés and quaint boutiques give the city a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The banks of the Fyris River offer boating, canoeing and kayaking opportunities, and are a picturesque visual attraction with reflections on its calm waters. Uppsala is also famous for its cultural festivals, such as the Literature Festival and the Culture Festival.
Viking origins, a living heritage.
In Scandinavian history, the Vikings remain an emblematic figure, associated with bravery, exploration and conquest. Stockholm and Uppsala each have their own fascinating Viking origins that contribute to their rich historical heritage. Let’s delve into the past to discover the Viking roots of these two jewels of Sweden.
Stockholm: on the shores of Lake Mälaren.
Stockholm’s Viking history dates back to the time when the city was a modest settlement on the shores of Lake Mälaren. By the middle of the first millennium, this area was populated by the Swedes, a Germanic tribe whose trading and maritime activities flourished. The Vikings of this region were outstanding navigators, exploiting the waterways to trade with other Nordic peoples as well as with more distant regions, such as Russia and even the Middle East.
The name Stockholm itself is of Viking origin. It comes from the expression “stock holm”, which means “island of trunks” in Swedish. This name refers to the poles used by the Vikings to mark the boundaries of their settlements on the islands of Lake Mälaren. Archaeological remains discovered in the Stockholm area testify to the importance of the Viking presence. Jewelry, weapons and navigational tools have all been found, offering a fascinating insight into the daily life of the Vikings in this region.
Uppsala: the center of Viking power.
Uppsala, meanwhile, was a vital center of Viking power and religion in Sweden. The city was the seat of the Swedish kings of the time, and its religious importance was symbolized by the Uppsala Temple, a place of worship dedicated to the Norse gods. This legendary temple is said to have been the largest in Scandinavia, hosting ceremonies and ritual sacrifices in the name of the Nordic gods. The Vikings of Uppsala were not only warriors and traders, but also thinkers and political leaders. They were renowned for their erudition and sagacity, and left an indelible mark on the history of Scandinavia.
Unfortunately, few Viking remains remain in Uppsala today due to the ravages of time and the city’s urban evolution. However, historical accounts and archaeological discoveries allow us to reconstruct a vivid picture of Viking life in this once prosperous region.
The wonders of Sweden’s heritage transport us through our imagination to a distant past when the Vikings reigned supreme over the North Seas and Scandinavian lands. If you close your eyes, you could almost see Thor himself in the half-light of the endless sunsets that make Scandinavian cities a daily spectacle.
Stockholm (Sweden) – January 2020
