Västerås

Västerås is a city in central Sweden, the seat of Västerås Municipality in Västmanland County. It lies on the eastern shore of Lake Mälaren, about 100 kilometers west of Stockholm. With roughly 150,000 residents in the municipality, Västerås is the largest urban center in Västmanland and an important regional hub for commerce, education and culture.

The city traces its origins to the medieval era. Västerås Cathedral, begun in the 13th century, has long been the seat of the Diocese of Västerås. The town grew as a market town and religious center, and its fortunes were tied to trade and later to industrial development in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Economy and institutions: Västerås hosts a mix of manufacturing, engineering and service companies, with education and research anchored by Mälardalens högskola (MDH), which maintains a campus in the city. The Aros Art Museum presents contemporary art and is a notable cultural institution; its Rainbow Panorama on the roof is a landmark.

Landmarks and culture: The city’s waterfront along Lake Mälaren, Djäkneberget park, and historic streets are part of the visitor experience. Västerås Cathedral and the area’s museums reflect the city’s long history.

Transport and sports: Västerås has a railway station with regional and long-distance services linking to Stockholm and other cities. It also has good road connections via major routes such as the E18. The city is home to sports clubs including Västerås SK, and hosts a range of cultural events throughout the year.