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Birka

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Montse
Montse
First Reviewer
4 out of 5
Avg. Member Rating
2
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8
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Editor Pick

Birka World Heritage Site

Birka World Heritage Site

After about a 1.5-hour boat ride with beautiful scenery, the boat docks on the island of Björkö in Lake Mälaren. There is a fairly small museum with permanent exhibits telling the history of Birka as a viking town and centre of European trade. The best part, however, is the guided tour over the World Heritage Site. You'll see the ongoing archeological excavation of the site, plus an explanation of Viking life and period artifacts from a delightful man who will tell you several times that Swedish vikings were nothing like Norwegian or Danish Vikings. He was out in a Viking tent on the hillside, showing off helmets, weapons, cooking implements, viking chests/storage, and clothing.

The hike out and over the site might be strenuous for anyone with mobility problems, as it's a bit hilly, and you have to watch out for sheep, but families should find it delightful. Our guide spoke perfect English and was very knowledgeable. There is a small cafe near the museum where you can have a bite before your ferry back.

Opening: May to September
Admission: About 255 Swedish Kronors covers the ferry, admission to the site, and the tour (255 SEK = 35 USD or 19 GBP).
Websites:
For the Birka world heritage site: http://www.raa.se/birka_eng/information.asp
For the ferry times, contact and pricing info: http://www.strommakanalbolaget.com/EN/index.htm

From journal Long Weekend in Stockholm

Editor Pick

Birka Vikingstaden (Birka the Viking City)

  • June 25, 2001
  • Rated 4 of 5 by Montse from Foxboro, Massachusetts
Birka Vikingstaden (Birka the Viking City)

In the town of Birka on Björkö island, Sweden first came into contact with Christianity. A missionary named Ansgar was sent Birka which was the largest trade port in the country. Ansgar wasn't successful, he only converted 2 of the Vikings and soon he deserted the island. However, his church remains. There are many archealogical dig sites on the island and a small museum is also located there. The ticket for the boat includes your admission to the museum and guided tour with one of the archeologists. An english speaking tour guide is with you on the 2 hour boat ride to Björkö and they will tell you history and stories during the ride. I particulary enjoyed the folklore behind some of the smaller islands we passed on the way. The boat has a small kitchen so you can have breakfast on the way. There is also a restaurant on the island. Besides the restaurant and the museum, the island is not well developed. There are gravel trails, farms houses, and cattle. Be sure to follow the trails and view the inside of the church as that is not on the guided tour!

From journal Stockholm in 7 Days

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