Culture of Kalmar. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

Kalmar is one of the oldest cities in Sweden. First mentions of Kalmar date back to the 11th century. Archeological excavations prove that ancient people appeared in the region during the prehistoric time. In the Middle Ages, the city was an important military and trading center. Many landmarks in Kalmar belong to that period. It is safe to say that the castle with the same name is the symbol of Kalmar. Built in the 13th century, it first served a military purpose and later became an important element in the city’s infrastructure. Nowadays, the castle is restored and looks wonderful. It has become home to an interesting museum dedicated to the history of the city.

The Öland Bridge is one more famous symbol of Kalmar. This is the longest bridge in Sweden. The length of the bridge is 6,000 meters, and its height reaches 40 meters in the middle. The height is not random – the bridge was constructed in a way to make sure that ships can sail without any trouble. This motorway bridge connects Kalmar with Färjestaden on Öland Island. The bridge also offers a fantastic view of the Kalmar Strait. However, tourists need to remember that this bridge is not intended for pedestrians, so if you want to admire the breathtaking views it offers you will need to rent a car.

In the 17th century, after the Kalmar War, the city’s border was moved to the south. Many buildings on Kvarnholmen Island appeared at that time. This is also the time when the main square – the so-called Stortorget Kalmar – was built in the city. The town hall building and the cathedral are the main landmarks here. These are amazing examples of the Baroque architectural style. The church was built in 1703, and for that time it had amazingly new construction of beams and decorative elements. Don’t forget to take a look at frescos and drawings inside the building. The altar composition “The Descent of Jesus Christ from the Cross” is particularly impressive. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Other elements of the square are no less attractive. Numerous old buildings in this part of the city appeared after the center of Kalmar had been moved to the island. Massive stone buildings that could survive an ambush, cobbled streets that almost haven’t been destroyed through centuries, ruins of the city wall – these landmarks reflect the history of Kalmar that survived in many battled. The nearby museum exhibits an interesting collection of artifacts dedicated to the region and its history. The building of the museum is also very attractive.

The Kalmar County Museum remains one of the most famous and interesting museums in the city. It is located not far from the haven, in an old factory building. The exhibition of the museum is incredibly diverse. There are items that date back to the Stone and Bronze Age – many of these artifacts were found in the city’s neighborhoods. In the museum’s halls, visitors will find old navigation equipment, uniforms, and household items. Many of these items were found in the ship named Kronan that sank at the end of the 17th century. Finally, there is an exhibition dedicated to works of Jenny Nyström, a famous illustrator who worked mostly in the fantasy style.

Kalmar Art Museum is open in a modern building that is hard to miss because of its interesting, somewhat futurist style. The museum is reminiscent of a black cube. Inside, there are four floors and many interesting exhibitions that are dedicated mostly to Swedish artists, such as Anders Zorn and Carl Larsson. There is also a gallery that exhibits works of the most famous designers in the country – drafts, artworks, and ready items. However, temporary exhibitions usually attract closer attention. The museum often hosts international exhibitions dedicated to modern art. The building is surrounded by an old park that is a great place to relax.

At a distance of approximately 8 kilometers, tourists will find Salvestaden. It is a unique place that is a miniature model of a medieval city. Once there was a city on this site, but it was destroyed in the 17th century. Modern Salvestaden is a precise copy of that town. Despite the fact that the model is smaller than the original town, it is a great place to feel the atmosphere of old Kalmar. By attending an excursion in Salvestaden, you will be able not only to learn the history of this place and traditions of Swedes of that period but also to participate in unique master-classes and performances. Masquerade and knight tournaments attract particularly many guests.

If you decide to cross the Öland Bridge, don’t forget to visit the ruins of the Borgholm Castle. Several centuries ago, it was one of the most magnificent and beautiful buildings in the region. Even nowadays, the remaining building still looks gorgeous. There is one more landmark not far from the ruins - Solliden Palace, which is the summer residence of the royal family. The building has an incredibly aesthetic look. Visitors are not allowed to enter the building and some park areas, but it is still possible to take a stroll to the garden and the nearby area.