Founded basically to function as a trading post, Uppsala became, in turn, the political and religious capital of Sweden; even today, the city is the seat of the archbishop of Sweden and the site of the oldest and most prestigious university in the country. Uppsala is also a military centre and an industrial town that produces processed foods, machinery, books and pharmaceuticals.

Uppsala’s most prominent landmark is the magnificent Domkyrkan, the 13^th century Gothic cathedral that is the largest in Sweden. Flanked by small chapels on either side, the Domkyrkan contains a set of vibrant old paintings depicting the legend of St Erik. Other important tourist sights in Uppsala include the Gustavianum, with its anatomical theatre and its collection of ancient Egyptian and Nordic artefacts; and the Carolina Rediviva, the largest library in Sweden. The latter contains a number of rare manuscripts and letters, including a beautiful Silver Bible. The Uppsala University building is worth a look (although you need special permission to visit certain halls), and the local castle, although not in great shape as much of it is just ruins, is good for a brief visit. If you’re in the mood for an excursion, make a trip to Gamla (`Old’) Uppsala, five km north of the city; once a pagan settlement and temple, it is the site of three ancient royal grave mounds and a medieval church.