Södermanland

Södermanland, or Södermanland Province, is one of Sweden's historical provinces (landskap). It is located in eastern central Sweden, surrounding parts of Lake Mälaren and extending to the Baltic Sea along its eastern coast. It is bordered by Uppland to the north, Västmanland to the west, and Östergötland to the southeast; the greater Stockholm urban area lies to its northeast. The landscape combines inland lakes, forests, and agricultural land, with numerous coastal communities on the Baltic and along Mälaren.

Historically, Södermanland developed as a distinct province in the medieval period and played a role in the centralization of the kingdom during the early modern era. The region is home to Gripsholms slott, a Renaissance castle in Mariefred that houses the National Portrait Collection. Rivers and lakes facilitated trade and travel, and many churches and manor houses survive from medieval and early modern times.

In contemporary Sweden, the historical province largely corresponds to the modern Södermanlands län (Södermanland County). Its largest urban centers include Eskilstuna, Nyköping, Katrineholm, Strängnäs, Trosa and Gnesta. The economy features manufacturing, logistics, and public services, complemented by tourism and agriculture. Cultural institutions include Södermanlands Museum in Nyköping and outdoor recreation networks such as Sörmlandsleden, a long-distance hiking trail.

The name Södermanland derives from its geographic position as the southern land of Swedes, south of Uppland.