Romanäs sanatorium, Early 20th-century medical building in Tranås, Sweden
Romanäs Sanatorium is an early 20th-century building situated on a promontory overlooking Lake Sommen. It features expansive windows, wide terraces, and a carefully planned orientation that was designed from the start to capture sunlight and views of the surrounding water and forests.
The building was constructed between 1905 and 1907 under architect Carl Westman and originally treated wealthy patients with tuberculosis. Its purpose shifted significantly in 1960 when it began serving patients with alcohol-related conditions.
The building shows how doctors once believed that nature and fresh air were essential parts of getting better. The large windows and outdoor spaces were expressions of a medical philosophy that saw the surrounding landscape as central to patient recovery.
The best time to visit is during clear weather when views across the lake and surrounding forests are at their clearest. The grounds are relatively flat and easy to navigate, with paths that allow for a leisurely walk around the property.
The building sits within a nature reserve where visitors can watch wild birds and other animals that inhabit the lake and surrounding forests. This combination of historical architecture and protected nature creates an experience that goes beyond just viewing a building.
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