All About Sweden

Sweden, which is considered both a Scandinavian and Nordic country, sits in between Norway and Finland, and is home to the globally known home furnishing brand, IKEA.

About 10,000 years ago hunter-gatherer groups traveled up north following the receding glaciers and lived off the land and sea before agriculture was introduced. Today much of the country’s population now resides in the south in what is known as the Stockholm-Gothenburg-Malmö triangle.

Lake Stora

Swedish culture is centered around innovation, simplicity, functionality, and (like Finland) sustainability. One iconic Swedish invention that embraces simplicity and sustainability is the Dala Horse. These brightly painted miniature wooden horse figurines have become a nation symbol and loved globally. Another fun cultural fact that celebrates functionality is that the modern concept of buffets originated in Sweden!  Known there as smorgasbord, it’s where a selection of breads, butters, meats, and other food are put out so diners can sample a variety of things themselves so hosts can enjoy their company.

Sweden has a diverse landscape and as a result, regions can look very different during the same time of the year, similar to the United States.  For example, while the southern part of the country is in full bloom, the northern part of the country can still have snow. To the west bordering Norway is more mountainous terrain and as you cross towards Finland the land flattens out as you near the coast, which is full of forests. With so many different ecosystems it’s no wonder Sweden became the first European country to establish a national park to preserve its wildlife!

While today Sweden’s largest export is machinery, lumber from the vast number of forests is still a historically significant export. To help move all the lumber before machines, the North Swedish Horse was developed to help with agricultural work. As a heavier draft type horse this breed was able to meet the demands of farmers. However, lighter types exist and are suitable for riding. Along with this draft breed other Swedish breeds were developed for different purposes. The Swedish Ardennes is another draft breed that was developed for agricultural purposes and riding, the rare Gotland Pony was bred to be a universal mount for driving and riding, and the Swedish Warmblood was developed as a calvary mount, but now is popular in a variety of equestrian sports.

If you’ve visited Sweden what was your favorite thing you experienced. Stay tuned as we jet set to another Nordic country later this week!