Sötost småland
Many of the churches contain old and interesting objects.
Churches worth visiting
The church thus has roots in the early Middle Ages but was burnt down and renovated several times. Its distinguishing features today are its two tall spires, and its proximity to the Kingdom of Crystal, which means it contains a large quantity of sacred art glassworks. The best known include an altarpiece by Bertil Vallien, a baptismal font by Kjell Engman and a light tree by Erik Höglund.
A story written down in the 13th century is said to explain why a cathedral came to be built in Växjö. The legend is supposed to have played out in the 11th century and then been described in the latter part of the 12th century. The missionary, St. Sigfrid, found Värend to be a rich land with fertile farmland and lakes abounding with fish. While he was resting, an angel appeared to him and commanded him to build a church by Lake Växjösjön, and some of the Christian residents of Växjö obliged.
Shortly afterwards, St. Sigfrid had to visit King Olof of Sweden — known as the Tax King — and left his three nephews, who were monks, to take care of Christianising the local people. Horribly, the heathens killed the nephews and put their heads in a barrel in Lake Växjösjön. The people then reverted to their heathen ways.
Småland: Sweden Travel Guide - Rough Guides
But when St. Sigfrid returned from his travels, the three nephews appeared to him in a vision and bade him build the church. The local people had a bad conscience, and the church was built. We cannot say if the legend is true but it became important for Växjö, which consolidated its position, becoming what was probably the first episcopal see in Sweden. Today, the Diocese of Växjö covers most of Småland and the island of Öland.
Many of the medieval churches were left behind in certain places as larger ones were built.
In poorer districts, the small churches remained in use. The Njudung churches are a group of nine medieval churches with a unique cultural history. The churches were built in the 12th century in Romanesque style with stone altars. You can read more about Njudung one of the small lands that formed Småland and the churches here.
Småländska rätter
The old medieval church is whitewashed and boasts fantastic murals and ceiling paintings from the 13th century. The old church has a very well-preserved interior with frescoes and ceiling paintings dating from the late 13th century. These are unique, and have attracted international attention. Two other medieval churches in the area have been preserved thanks to the fact that they found alternative uses and the people fought Bishop Tegnér to keep them.
Drev Church is a well-preserved medieval church in Romanesque style and has been dated to approx.
Sötost från Småland
Sjöså Church dates from the 15th century and is beautifully situated by Örken lake. The first church built in Hossmo was probably made of wood. However, several written sources show that the church was used as a garrison and a flank stronghold for Kalmar during the Dano-Swedish conflicts of the early 16th century. Top-class art galleries where the art of Småland meets international works — a must for art lovers!
Småland has museums for everyone. We list some of our favourites and let you choose. Småland is a popular travel destination for good reason, both for young and old — here you can experience beautiful landscapes and much more.