dalarna

Dalarna, also known as Dalarns län, is a county in central Sweden. Its administrative seat is Falun, and the largest urban center is Borlänge. It borders Gävleborg County to the north and Örebro County to the south, and it is largely congruent with the historic province of Dalarna (landskap), a region noted for its distinctive cultural heritage.

Geography and landscape features a mix of forests, lakes and mountains, with Lake Siljan as a central and well-known feature. The Bergslagen mining district extends into parts of the county, reflecting a long history of metal production. The area is largely rural, dotted with towns and numerous small communities, and it plays a significant role in Sweden’s natural and recreational resources.

History and culture prominent in the region include the Falun copper mine, a former major source of copper and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Dalecarlian horse (Dalahäst), a traditional wooden statue often painted red with white and blue details, is a widely recognized symbol of the area. Mora hosts the annual Vasaloppet, one of the world’s oldest and longest cross-country ski races. The region is known for its folk traditions, crafts and cultural heritage.

Economy and administration today emphasize manufacturing, services and tourism related to nature and heritage. Dalarna is administered as a county with a County Administrative Board and a County Council, while municipalities handle local services and governance.