Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Top Destinations to Visit in Sweden in 2019
Sigtuna — the medieval town where it all began Sweden’s oldest town, the picturesque Sigtuna by lake Mälaren, was founded by King Erik the Victorious in 970 A.D. He had a vision for a Swedish kingdom with a modern European town as an international meeting place. Today, Sigtuna is a popular tourist destination that retains its medieval charm.
more than anywhere else in the country. In the town itself, at least 20 rune stones can be read, with writings dating back to the tenth century.
By Sofia Scratton | Photos: Destination Sigtuna
The multiplicity of Sigtuna has four different castles for tourists to explore. Rosenberg’s Palace is a hidden gem, a royal palace built in the 1630s that contains some of Europe’s best-preserved empire interiors. The grounds and gardens are lovely for a picnic, or why not visit the palace café, open during the summer months, which also has an outdoor terrace? Wenngarn Castle, meanwhile, dates back to the 1600s and is open all year round. Steninge Castle was built by
Located only 15 minutes’ drive from Sweden’s largest international airport, 48 kilometres from the capital city of Stockholm, and 37 kilometres from the famous university city, Uppsala, Sigtuna’s location is perfect for tourists. “This is where Sweden begins, both historically speaking and geographically, for those arriving at Arlanda airport,” says Anna Lakmaker, CEO at Destination Sigtuna. 52 | Issue 120 | January 2019
“Sigtuna is the fourth-largest hotel destination in Sweden, with 886,000 overnight stays per year. The area has a rich history and four beautiful castles – there is so much to do and see here, and it is all very accessible to visitors.” Being the oldest town in Sweden, it has a particularly rich history. Within Sigtuna’s municipality there are 170 rune stones,