Uppsala

๐Ÿ›๏ธ

Museums and Historical Sites

Highlights Uppsala's wealth of museums, historical buildings, and landmarks that reflect the city's rich history and cultural significance.

Sections

1. Uppsala Cathedral (Uppsala Domkyrka)

  • Historical and Cultural Significance:
    Uppsala Cathedral is the largest and tallest church in Scandinavia, dating back to the late 13th century. It has been the coronation site for Swedish monarchs and is the burial place of notable figures such as King Gustav Vasa and Carl Linnaeus. The cathedral is a symbol of Sweden's religious and cultural history.

  • Visiting Hours:

    • Monday to Saturday: 8:00 AM โ€“ 6:00 PM
    • Sunday: 8:00 AM โ€“ 5:00 PM
      (Hours may vary during special events or holidays.)

  • Ticket Prices:
    Entry is free, but donations are encouraged. Guided tours may have a small fee (around 50โ€“100 SEK).

  • Accessibility:
    The cathedral is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators available.

  • Guided Tours:
    Guided tours are available in English and Swedish. Check the cathedral's website or inquire at the entrance for schedules.

  • Nearby Amenities:

    • Cafรฉs and restaurants are within walking distance.
    • The Uppsala University Museum (Gustavianum) is nearby.
    • Public restrooms are available in the vicinity.

  • Local Tips:

    • Visit during the summer for organ concerts and other cultural events.
    • Climb the tower for panoramic views of Uppsala (additional fee applies).

2. Gustavianum โ€“ Uppsala University Museum

  • Historical and Cultural Significance:
    This museum is housed in Uppsala University's oldest building, dating back to the 1620s. It showcases the history of science, medicine, and art, including the famous Augsburg Art Cabinet and anatomical theater.

  • Visiting Hours:

    • Tuesday to Sunday: 11:00 AM โ€“ 4:00 PM
    • Closed on Mondays.
      (Hours may vary seasonally.)

  • Ticket Prices:

    • Adults: 50 SEK
    • Students and seniors: 30 SEK
    • Children under 18: Free

  • Accessibility:
    The museum is partially wheelchair accessible. Contact the museum in advance for specific accessibility needs.

  • Guided Tours:
    Guided tours are available and can be booked in advance. They provide deeper insights into the exhibits and the history of Uppsala University.

  • Nearby Amenities:

    • Located near Uppsala Cathedral and the Botanical Garden.
    • Several cafรฉs and shops are nearby.
    • Public transportation stops are within walking distance.

  • Local Tips:

    • Donโ€™t miss the anatomical theater, a unique feature of the museum.
    • Combine your visit with a walk through the nearby university campus.

3. Gamla Uppsala (Old Uppsala)

  • Historical and Cultural Significance:
    Gamla Uppsala is an archaeological site and open-air museum featuring ancient burial mounds from the Viking Age. It was a significant religious and political center in pre-Christian Sweden.

  • Visiting Hours:

    • Museum:
      • Summer (Mayโ€“September): 10:00 AM โ€“ 5:00 PM
      • Winter (Octoberโ€“April): 11:00 AM โ€“ 4:00 PM
    • Outdoor areas are open year-round.

  • Ticket Prices:

    • Adults: 80 SEK
    • Students and seniors: 60 SEK
    • Children under 18: Free

  • Accessibility:
    The museum is wheelchair accessible, but the outdoor burial mounds may be challenging to navigate for those with mobility issues.

  • Guided Tours:
    Guided tours are available and highly recommended to understand the site's Viking history and mythology. Tours can be booked in advance.

  • Nearby Amenities:

    • A cafรฉ and gift shop are located at the museum.
    • Public restrooms are available.
    • Bus connections to central Uppsala are frequent.

  • Local Tips:

    • Visit during Midsummer for traditional Swedish celebrations.
    • Dress warmly if visiting in winter, as the site is mostly outdoors.

4. Carolina Rediviva (Uppsala University Library)

  • Historical and Cultural Significance:
    Carolina Rediviva is Sweden's oldest university library, home to the famous Silver Bible (Codex Argenteus), a 6th-century Gothic manuscript. The library is a hub for academic and cultural history.

  • Visiting Hours:

    • Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM โ€“ 7:00 PM
    • Saturday: 10:00 AM โ€“ 2:00 PM
    • Closed on Sundays and public holidays.

  • Ticket Prices:
    Entry is free, but donations are welcome.

  • Accessibility:
    Fully wheelchair accessible, with elevators and ramps.

  • Guided Tours:
    Guided tours are available for groups and must be booked in advance.

  • Nearby Amenities:

    • Located near the Uppsala Botanical Garden and the University Main Building.
    • Cafรฉs and restaurants are within walking distance.

  • Local Tips:

    • Check out temporary exhibitions that often feature rare manuscripts and historical artifacts.
    • Photography is allowed but without flash.

5. Uppsala Castle (Uppsala Slott)

  • Historical and Cultural Significance:
    Built in the 16th century by King Gustav Vasa, Uppsala Castle has witnessed significant events in Swedish history, including the Sture Murders and the abdication of Queen Christina. Today, it houses art exhibitions and the Uppsala Art Museum.

  • Visiting Hours:

    • Art Museum:
      • Tuesday to Sunday: 12:00 PM โ€“ 5:00 PM
      • Closed on Mondays.
    • Castle grounds are open year-round.

  • Ticket Prices:

    • Art Museum: Free entry.
    • Special exhibitions may have a fee.

  • Accessibility:
    The castle is partially wheelchair accessible. Contact in advance for specific needs.

  • Guided Tours:
    Guided tours of the castle and its history are available during the summer months. Check the website for schedules.

  • Nearby Amenities:

    • The Botanical Garden is located just below the castle.
    • Cafรฉs and restaurants are nearby.
    • Public transportation stops are within walking distance.

  • Local Tips:

    • Visit the castle in the evening for stunning views of Uppsala at sunset.
    • Check for seasonal art exhibitions and cultural events.

Practical Information for All Sites

  • Getting There:
    Uppsala is well-connected by train and bus from Stockholm (about 40 minutes by train). Local buses and bicycles are convenient for getting around the city. Most sites are within walking distance of each other in the city center.

  • Seasonal Highlights:

    • Summer: Outdoor concerts, festivals, and extended visiting hours.
    • Winter: Christmas markets and cozy indoor exhibitions.

  • Local Tips:

    • Purchase a Uppsala Tourist Card for discounts on multiple attractions.
    • Wear comfortable shoes, as many sites involve walking or uneven terrain.
    • Check official websites for updates on hours, events, and ticket prices.

By visiting these museums and historical sites, youโ€™ll gain a deep appreciation for Uppsalaโ€™s rich cultural and historical heritage. Enjoy your trip!