Sweden

European Cemeteries Route

Much can be learned about a country’s cultural tapestry by studying its burial rites and cemeteries. The peaceful environment found in Europe’s historic cemeteries is wonderfully conducive to contemplating the heritage and traditions unveiled in these often scenic sites. The European Cemeteries route traces a path through 20 countries and four macro-regions, including one itinerary point in Sweden. Discover graves of influential names from history, picturesque churches and fascinating stories along the way.

The Hansa

The Hanseatic League was a unique union of cities, created by medieval German merchants keen to improve their trade links within other regions of Europe. At its peak, the league included almost 200 cities across all seven countries of what is now known as the Baltic Sea EU macro-region (EUBSR). Following the cultural route through the Hanseatic towns and cities of the past provides an engaging glimpse into the way connections within the region have shaped the present.

The Viking Cultural Route

Perhaps the most famous of Sweden’s ancestors, the Vikings spark the imaginations of visitors young and old. Originally from Denmark, the Vikings travelled extensively throughout the 8th to 11th centuries, casting their influence widely. The Viking Cultural Route tours the most important Viking sites in Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Poland, showcasing everything from Viking vessels to settlements across the 11 Swedish stops.

Impressionisms Routes

The 19th-century Impressionist movement was one of the most highly regarded artistic styles, encompassing the works of legendary painters like Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir and Francisco Llorens-Diaz. The Impressionisms Routes consist of several routes celebrating the important galleries, museums and inspiration behind some of the greatest paintings in the history of art.

European Route of Cistercian Abbeys

Founded in France in 1098, the Cistercian Order was, and still is, an active part of the Roman Catholic Church. The order expanded across Europe, building an impressive 750 abbeys and 1,000 monasteries. The European Route of Cistercian Abbeys visits 32 of the most influential, journeying through historic sites in 11 different countries, including five abbeys in Sweden.

Route of Saint Olav Ways

11th-century Norwegian king, Olav II Haraldson, walked a pilgrimage through Scandinavia that now inspires the spectacular Route of Saint Olav Ways. Follow in the footsteps of this much-loved martyr and saint as a network of rural paths and trails wind through Sweden, Denmark and Norway. The route culminates in a stop at Saint Olav’s burial site at Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim, Norway.