Uppsala

Uppsala is a city in Sweden, located about 70 kilometers north of Stockholm. It is the capital of Uppsala County and the seat of Uppsala Municipality. The city lies along the Fyrisån River and is one of Sweden’s oldest urban centers, with a historic core that includes medieval streets and university quarters.

Historically, Uppsala has served as a major religious center. In the Middle Ages it became the seat of the Swedish archbishop and remained the country’s spiritual capital until the Reformation. Uppsala Cathedral, begun in the 13th century and completed in the 15th, dominates the skyline and contains the tombs of Swedish monarchs and other notable figures.

Uppsala University, founded in 1477 by King Gustav Vasa, is the oldest university in the Nordic countries and remains a leading center of research and higher education. The university has produced many scholars, including Carl Linnaeus and Anders Celsius. Notable university institutions and sites in the city include the Gustavianum (the university museum), the historical anatomical theatre, the Carolina Rediviva library, and the Linnaeus Garden.

Nearby Gamla Uppsala is an important archaeological and religious site with ancient royal mounds and a medieval church, reflecting the area’s long pre-University history. The city’s economy centers on education, research, and related services, with a growing presence of biotechnology and technology firms linked to the university. Tourism focused on history and culture also contributes to Uppsala’s profile.

Uppsala is well connected by rail to Stockholm and other cities, with Uppsala Central Station serving intercity and regional services. It is accessible by road through the European route network and local buses.