Europe

[Visited: August 2008]

Originally, as was the norm back in the Middle Ages, Gothenburg was a walled city. In the mid 17th century, a suburb, Haga, was built outside the city walls by Queen Christina, which would house the working class. One condition was agreed upon: the land could be reclaimed if needed. This, indeed, happened at the end of the same century. A covered causeway was built between the city wall to the north and the Skansen Kronan fortification just above the district. In the 18th century, increasing industrial activity in Gothenburg led to an increased need for housing which had its impact on the number of inhabitants of the Haga district.
A few decades ago, the Haga district did not have a very good reputation, and it was decided to give the old district a face-lift. Some buildings were improved, others were demolished and replaced by buildings in old style. It resulted in a cosy neighbourhood, in walking distance from the city centre. While downtown Gothenburg overall is modern and can be a little hectic, Haga now is an attractive district with a laid-back atmosphere. Here, you will find no trams or buses, and you can walk the quiet cobble-stone streets without being afraid of being run over by cars. You can also find old traditional shops and boutiques, as well as the impressive Hagabadet, the former Renströmska public bath where you can now have a luxurious refreshing time.
Towering above Haga is a fortification on top of a hill, Skansen Kronan (redoubt crown), with a big golden crown right on top of it. You can walk to the top using various steep paths; within no time the panorama of the city opens up under your eyes. Skansen Kronan was built in 1641 to scare off the Danes, the enemies of the Swedes at the time. It was nicknamed Juteskrämman, or the Dane Scare. After it was finished at the end of the 17th century, the fortification was actually never used in any conflict. Instead, it was used as a prison until becoming the military museum of the city, which it is until the present day. It has a relaxed atmosphere with many young people taking a break in the sun. And, of course, Skansen Kronan offers probably the best spot in town for a commanding view over Gothenburg in all directions. Right under you, you can see the typical red roofs of the Haga district, you can see the harbour, enormous bridges spanning the Göta Älv, the hills surrounding the city, and the present-day suburbs. It makes you realize how the city has grown, while Haga once was an outlying district, the city has spread in all directions.

Around the World in 80 Clicks

Personal travel impressions both in words and images from Haga (Sweden). Clicking on the pictures enlarges them and enables you to send the picture as a free e-card or download it for personal use, for instance, on your weblog. Or click on the map above to visit more places close to Haga.
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Haga > Sweden > Europe

[Visited: August 2008]

Around the World in 80 Clicks

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