Historical Walking Tour in Uppsala with Sweden History Tours
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; moderate walking involved
Overview
Journey through Uppsala's shadowy past with a guided walk that uncovers stories of liquor barons, old brothels, and racial biology labs. Discover the city’s lesser-known history in this compelling tour.
II Liquor barons, prostitution and the Institute for racial biology - a dark Uppsala walk
1 Hour • All Ages • A darker Uppsala city walk
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a haunting journey through Uppsala's shadowy past on this unique city walk. Discover forgotten stories of brothels, the Black Death, and the dark legacy of racial biology. Led by an expert guide, explore hidden alleys and infamous sites, revealing a side of Uppsala that history often overlooks.
Duration
1 Hour
Explore the dark, the forgotten ones and those who was once thrown away! Welcome to a darker and different city walk back in time to the dark past of Uppsala city and darker Swedish history. While walking in back alleys and among famous buildings you’ll get to know another side of the city. You’ll hear about 19th C brothels and the horrors when the black death came to town 1710. About slavery, the poor people shut into “correction houses” and when the 19th C liquor barons ruled the city. On this dark city walk we’ll visit the site of, and explore more about, the Swedish Institute for Racial biology, self-governed 1922-1958, and the 20th C forced sterilization and lobotomy operations. During this tour you’ll also be familiarized other problematic history such as the 19th C legal prostitution; explore why the girls weren’t allowed in certain parts of the city and where they went for examination once a week to be allowed to continue working. Explore as new face of Uppsala as you’ve never seen it before and get to know for what crimes you might end up at the University’s anatomical institution. This tour is lead by an Authorized Uppsala city guide.
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable shoes
The walk covers uneven cobblestone streets and alleys, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
Bring a flashlight
Some sites are dark or tucked away in hidden corners, so a small flashlight can be helpful.
Prepare for thought-provoking stories
Topics include sensitive and controversial historical subjects, so approach with an open mind.
Bring a notebook
Great for jotting down interesting facts or questions to ask your guide.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Pigeons in the city squares
- Small urban foxes in hidden gardens
History
Uppsala's history includes a mix of medieval pandemics and 19th-century social reform movements, which are subtly reflected in its architecture and layout.
Conservation
The tour emphasizes respect for historic sites and promotes awareness of preserving Uppsala’s unique urban heritage.
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Adventure Hotspots in Stockholm
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Helpful for navigating Uppsala's historic streets and alleys.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during the walk—urban walking can be more strenuous than expected.
Notebook and pen
Capture interesting facts and thoughts during the tour.
Lightweight jacket
Weather can change unexpectedly in Uppsala, so be prepared.
spring; fall; winter specific