Övralid, Literary museum at Lake Vättern, Sweden
Övralid is a literary museum on the shores of Lake Vättern, housed in a white wooden manor with two stories. The building displays preserved rooms including a library, study, dining hall, and bedrooms filled with personal belongings from its former resident.
The residence was built between 1923 and 1925 by Nobel Prize laureate Verner von Heidenstam, who lived there until his death in 1940. The house later became a place of remembrance for his literary legacy.
The name Övralid derives from Old Norse and means 'inheritance of ancestors', reflecting its deep connection to literary tradition. Visitors can observe how the rooms document the creative life of a celebrated writer, with his working methods still evident in the arrangement of personal spaces.
The museum operates guided tours during summer months, allowing visitors to walk through the preserved interior and examine original furnishings and belongings. It is wise to check opening times before visiting and wear comfortable shoes for exploring the grounds.
The kitchen contains one of Sweden's earliest working refrigerators from the 1930s, still positioned in its original spot. This rare appliance offers a window into the daily technology of that era.
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