Västerås

Anundshög stands as Sweden's largest burial mound, an ancient marvel with a 60-metre diameter and a towering height of approximately 9 metres. While the exact era of its construction remains a topic of debate, ranging from the Bronze Age to the late Iron Age, radiocarbon dating of a fireplace beneath it suggests a timeline between AD 500 and 1050. Although legend has it that King Bröt-Anund found his final resting place here, concrete proof remains elusive. For centuries, this site has served as a cultural epicentre for the entire west Mälardalen region, echoing Sweden's rich history and mysteries.

Engsö Castle is a picturesque estate nestled amidst landscaped gardens near a serene lake. It is well-known in Sweden for its ghostly inhabitants, with numerous stories of hauntings adding to its mystique. The castle also boasts an intriguing feature — the slender five-foot-long "Engsökedjan" chain embedded in its walls. Legend has it that this chain was won by Johan Sigismund Sparre, the last of his line, in a high-stakes game of dice with the devil himself.

At Frösåkers Brygga, visitors are transported back to the Viking Age, where they can engage in hands-on activities like baking flatbread over an open fire, crafting ropes, and shooting catapults. It's also home to Sweden's largest floating boat museum, housing an impressive collection of over 20 Viking ships and peasant boats, with the fleet continuously expanding. Frösåkers Brygga stands as a highly unique and genuine tourist attraction, providing entertainment and fascination for all who visit.

Kungsby offers a dual delight: it's fun for kids and educational for adults. The park boasts a diverse range of animals, from cows and goats to pigs, rabbits, sheep, donkeys, and even wild boars. However, the highlight is the opportunity to catch a glimpse of Sweden's majestic forest king, the moose.

Prison Island offers a unique and engaging experience filled with cells, each presenting tricky challenges that demand creative problem-solving and cooperation within groups of 3-4 people. Whether you're small and agile or big and strong, there are tasks designed for everyone. Additionally, for those seeking an adrenaline rush, there's an exhilarating laser game set in a smoke-filled arena with a maze of laser beams, making it a thrilling adventure for all.

Tidö Castle is a splendid example of the Dutch Renaissance style and stands as one of Sweden's best-preserved Baroque palaces. Its history traces back to the 15th century when the Gren family built a medieval house on the site. In the 17th century, the Lord High Chancellor of Sweden, Axel Oxenstierna, constructed the present castle, which was owned by the Oxenstiern family for two centuries. In 1890, it came under the care of the von Schinkel family, and today, David von Schinkel continues to manage and preserve this cultural heritage, sharing its rich history with the public while still serving as a private residence.

The Vallby Open Air Museum is a recreated 19th-century village offering a vivid depiction of life in Västmanland County through costumed interpreters and demonstrations. Since its inception in 1921, the museum has painstakingly rescued and reconstructed over fifty historic buildings. Spread across 37 acres, Vallby features period gardens, orchards, agricultural landscapes, native breeds, and a rich collection of well-preserved historic structures, making it a captivating window into the region's heritage.

Have fun on the slopes without having to travel to the mountains. Vedbobacken is Västerås’ very own urban ski slope. Weather permitting, Vedbobacken is open from mid-December to mid-March and offers several runs of varying difficulty, from green to red, two lifts, a sledging slope, ski hire, a café, and public barbecuing facilities. There is always snow at Vedbobacken when they are open, even if there is no snow on the ground.

Västerås Castle, situated just a stone’s throw from the city centre, bears witness to a rich and tumultuous part of Swedish history. Constructed in the 13th century, the castle was once the house of Crown Prince Erik before becoming his prison. Between June 14, 1573, and October 16, 1574, King Erik XIV was held captive here, enduring separation from his wife and their children. The dethroned king moved to Örbyhus shortly before his death, from poisoned pea soup says the story, but later his body was brought back to Västerås for burial in the cathedral. The castle now hosts the Västmanland County Museum, county archive, library, and administration. Visitors can explore hidden lakes and winding trails that offer a tranquil escape within this historical enclave.

Västerås Cathedral is a beautifully preserved medieval church dating back to the 13th century. It boasts a unique blend of ancient art treasures and modern contrasts that make it stand out among its kind. Within its hallowed walls, visitors can marvel at 163 intact gravestones and see the resting place of King Erik XIV.

The museum's core mission is to enhance understanding and appreciation of Västmanland County's cultural heritage. By providing insight into the past, it strives to enrich the perspectives of both the present and the future, ensuring that the region's rich history and traditions continue to resonate with generations to come.