Valsgarde - Uppsala, Sweden

The burial mound in Valsgarde eight kilometres north of Uppsala rises above the surrounding clay plain.  The entire grave field measures around 100 x 150m.  Traces of 80 or so graves are visible as mounds and elongated depressions.  There are remains of chamber tombs, casket burials, boat burials and cremations.  Those buried at Valsgarde belonged to society's elite.  These people maintained their burial traditions conservatively over several centuries and the graves can be seen as an expression of an aristocratic lifestyle and identity. The grave field in Valsgarde was used for 700 years from around 400 AD to 1100 AD

Valsgarde was strategically located next to a major transport route, the river Fyrisan, which made long journeys to countries on the continent possible.  The men in the graves took their battle equipment, household objects, tools and a number of animals with them on their final journey. Resting comfortably on eiderdown beds, they could embark on their final journey.

Activities Valsgarde

We recommend combining a visit to Valsgarde grave field with a visit to Museum Gustavianum, the
university museum, and its exhibit called Valsgarde.  The Vendel and Viking periods are shown.
See burial number seven at Valsgarde in full size.

More information about Valsgarde     www.vikinguppsala.se

Ideas for local visits.   www.destinationuppsala.se