Småland

Småland is a historical province (landskap) in southern Sweden. It covers a large part of the southern interior of the country and is known for its forests, lakes, and agricultural landscapes. The name means "small lands," reflecting its traditional division into many smaller jurisdictions before central administration consolidated them. The province today lies within the Götaland region and overlaps the counties of Jönköping, Kronoberg, and Kalmar.

Småland is characterized by dense forests, numerous lakes such as Bolmen and Åsnen, and rolling terrain with a mixture of farmland and woodland. The eastern coast faces the Baltic Sea, while the southern edge lies near the Öland–Kalmar region. The landscape supports forestry, farming, and outdoor recreation.

The area has been settled since ancient times, with a landscape shaped by small parishes and hundreds. Kalmar emerged as a political center in the late medieval era, and the Kalmar Union was formed there in 1397. In the 18th to 20th centuries Småland developed significant glassmaking, giving rise to the designation Glass Country. The region also experienced notable emigration to North America in the 19th century. Ingvar Kamprad, founder of IKEA, was born in Agunnaryd, Småland.

Today Småland remains important for forestry and manufacturing, while tourism centers on nature, lakes, and historic towns. The region is associated with a pragmatic, entrepreneurial culture and with a tradition of crafts and design, including glassworks such as Kosta and Orrefors.

Major urban centers include Växjö, Kalmar, and Jönköping. Växjö hosts Linnaeus University; Kalmar is known for Kalmar Castle; Jönköping lies at the southern end of Lake Vättern.