Sweden is a country with varied history and many important cities. Gothenburg is just one of the cities in Sweden that is extremely important to the commerce of the country as it has some of the busiest ports in the history of the country. You will find that Gothenburg was chartered in 1621, which means it was established. You will also find that the current population has grown to over 400,000 people. Gothenburg is the second largest city in Sweden, second only to that of the capital Stockholm.
Gothenburg is located in the west coast area of Sweden offering both a municipality and an urban area. You will find that Gothenburg is considered to be the University city of Sweden. Although you will find there are other universities in Gothenburg Sweden has one of the largest schools in terms of students. The University of Gothenburg is extremely important to the city.
You will find that Gothenburg is situated on the Gota Alv as well as the Kattegatt River. You will find the Kattegatt divides the city of Gothenburg into two parts. One half is across the river, with the upper part located on the Island of Hisingen. You will find that Gota Alv is very important to the port system as it contains one of the largest harbors.
The name Gothenburg is very important to the history of the city. The city was actually named after the Geats who were extremely important in the founding of Sweden and Scandinavia. The city's name means “Defense of the Geats” and offers a fort to protect the Gota River as well as the ports that were used throughout history. It was always important to make sure the ports were protected as the Dutch, Scots, Germans, and English had a part in trying to rule the ports. You will find that all of these languages are very important to the city of Gothenburg as they had to trade in these languages for centuries.
As mentioned, Gothenburg was extremely important to the overall survival of Sweden in the trade industry, especially during the sixteen and seventeenth centuries. You will find that the gateway to the west allowed for trading not only along the rest of Scandinavia, but also to England, the East and West Indies and farther around the world.
Gustavus Aldophus was the main person to establish Gothenburg as a true city, although there were many failures with war and those trying to control the ports. The city is also heavily influenced by Dutch history lending the actual map of the city to the Dutch designers. You will find the town was planned around the canals like many of the Dutch cities, especially Amsterdam. In fact the Dutch had so much influence on the city that they for a time ruled the city politically. You will find that in 1652 the last of the Dutch influence was gone with the death of the last Dutch politician. After that time the city was ruled by the Swedes.
Sweden History Tip #1
Always remember to carry a map of Sweden when you visit, mark on it the whereabouts of your hotel and the full address and keep it with you when you travel. Mark down landmarks near the hotel if you plan to walk so that you can easily spot the direction of your residency for the time of your stay. |
Sweden History Tip #2
If you plan to travel to Northern Sweden to experience the Northern Lights and the Ice Hotel, pack accordingly and remember warm clothing, especially in winter months. Thermal underwear is highly recommended on top of hats, scarves and a couple of pairs of gloves – there's nothing worse than packing just one pair and losing one glove! |
Sweden History Tip #3
Gothenburg Sweden is just one of many things to see in Sweden. A good idea is to plan your trip in advance so that you can get to see the best of the best. The place is full of history, glorious scenery, architecture and quaint little buildings. |
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