Beautiful 'frozen in time' town with cobblestone streets is oldest in the country

A quaint town, over a thousand years old, nestles on the banks of a picturesque lake, adorned with colorful wooden houses.

Sigtuna, often hailed as Sweden's first town, is a charming blend of history and natural beauty. Situated just 45 minutes from Stockholm and a brief drive from Arlanda Airport, it makes for an ideal day trip if you're visiting thecontemporary Swedish capital.

Despite its current population of merely 10,000, Sigtuna was effectively Sweden's capital after its establishment in 980 AD, serving as the Royal and commercial hub until the 13th century. Although it may have lost its economic and political influence, Sigtuna remains a captivating destination offering a genuine peek into Sweden's bygone era.

Its rich past is palpable at every corner, from the cobbled lanes and medieval ruins to the ancient runestones scattered across the area. These runestones - over 150 in total - serve as open-air tributes to the Viking Age, engraved with inscriptions commemorating individuals who lived and traded here over a millennium ago.

The Sigtuna Rune Stone Walk guides you around the town centre and along the Procession Road, passing a total of 15 rune stones, mostly from the 10th and 11th centuries. Each stone features its own information board and translation of the runic inscription.

The town's archaeological heritage has been meticulously preserved and is well contextualised at the Sigtuna Museum. One of the town's primary attractions is Stora Gatan. Sweden's most ancient main thoroughfare is remarkably well-preserved.

"This street is special because its layout has not changed for nearly a millennium," writes Atlas Obscura.

King Erik the Victorious, Sigtuna's founder, harboured ambitions to establish the settlement as the nation's capital, though this proved no simple undertaking. To secure support from the populace and, crucially, affluent landowners, he parcelled out territory into plots and distributed them amongst influential figures.

Whilst they wouldn't reside permanently on the land, these powerful individuals would frequently visit to display their wealth.

"Over time, it truly became the capital of Sweden, and travelers from all over the world would arrive here with their goods. Underneath the road, archeologists have found items from the Byzantine empire, Asia, and the old Russian empire," Atlas Obscura continues.

Regrettably, virtually all the historic structures save for several churches have either been demolished or destroyed by blazes. Fresh dwellings were erected and the settlement transformed, yet the principal thoroughfare has remained largely unchanged.

Adorned with vibrant timber houses, specialist boutiques, welcoming cafes, and artistic galleries, it presents a delightful location for an afternoon stroll that transports visitors through the centuries. Numerous establishments offer locally crafted items, designer pieces, and Swedish-produced mementoes, creating an ideal destination for acquiring tasteful gifts.

The thoroughfare also provides direct access to Lake Malaren's scenic waterfront, where guests can amble beside the water, savour a fika near the marina, or embark on a boat excursion during The summer months in Sigtuna are marked by the atmospheric presence of three medieval church ruins - St. Lars, St. Olaf, and St. Peter's - which stand as poignant reminders of the town's Christian heritage. These stone ruins, nestled amidst tranquil gardens and walking paths, provide a stark contrast to the still-active Sigtuna Church, a 13th-century edifice that continues to serve as a community hub.

The harmonious blend of ancient and contemporary architecture lends the town an enduring charm, making it a magnet for travellers with a keen interest in history and culture.

In addition to its historical allure, Sigtuna is celebrated for its laid-back lifestyle and natural beauty. Tucked away amongst forests and lakes, the town offers many outdoor activities such as cycling, kayaking, and hiking.

During winter, the frozen lake transforms into a natural ice-skating rink, while the warmer months invite visitors to swim, picnic, or simply bask in the tranquillity of the landscape. The nearby Sigtunastiftelsen, a cultural and conference centre complete with a cafe and picturesque gardens, serves as another serene haven perfect for contemplation or afternoon tea.

Sigtuna presents a unique offering that few other destinations can match: a living bridge between the Viking Age and contemporary Scandinavia. Its history isn't merely confined to museums; instead, it's intricately woven into the town's streets, stones, and scenery.