Uppsala is the major University City of Sweden and the most popular day trip from Stockholm. It not only has a great University, but a celebrated 15th century cathedral and a 16th century castle. It was once the center of the Royal Court. The church here, is still the seat of the archbishop, and the First University was founded in 1477. Uppsala is located on the Fyris River, and is 42 miles northwest of Stockholm - or 1 hour by train. Uppsala Cathedral is the largest cathedral in Scandinavia - its twin-spire Gothic structure nearly 400 feet high. It was founded in the 13th century. The remains of St. Erik, patron saint of Sweden, are entombed here in a silver shrine. Uppsala Castle hovers over the city - a 16th century castle founded by Gustavus Vasa in 1540. It was the setting for one of the most memorable moments in Scandinavian History - the abdication of Queen Christina in 1654. One may also visit the Linnaean Gardens and Museum in nearby Svartbacksgatan. Linnaeus was the Swedish botanist who devised the system of classifying plants and animals.
Dalarna: This is a province in the Lake District. It is the most tradition-laden of all the provinces in the country. Its splashes of local color would rival a Van Gogh painting - everything from maypole dancing, fiddler's music, and folk costumes to handicrafts. The Dala Horse is displayed in every souvenir shop in Sweden. Midsummer is a perfect time to visit this area. It is then that the Dalecarlians run around as if they've already popped open all the wine bottles in town.
Tallberg: This lakeside village is charmingly in tune with the spirit and tradition of the Dalarna Province. It's the most favored spot in the whole province, and a choice oasis for thousands of nature-lovers. Curling, skating, and sleigh rides are popular sports here. Tallberg is located on Lake Sikjan.
Mora: The provincial town of Mora is in Upper Dalarna, between Lake Orsa and Lake Siljan. Summer travelers find this business and residential center a good base for exploring the district. In Swedish history, Mora played an important role as the village where Gustavus Vasa finally rallied the peasants in Sweden's 16th century war to free itself from the Danish. Mora is also the hometown of Anders Zorn, Swedens most famous painter. One can visit his museum, studio and home/gardens.
Musnas: This is the home of the famous Dala Horse Factory. You are free to walk around and watch the craftsmen as they work, and the finished product is naturally on sale in the tourist shop. Nusnas is a small village east of Mora.
Author of this article is Gene Gill. For more information visit his website: Gene Gill Miniatures.
