Elefanten, Sollentuna, Cold War civil defense headquarters in Edsberg, Sweden
Elefanten is an underground shelter built within a mountain to serve as a civil defense command center. The facility contains separate buildings with thick reinforced walls, ventilation systems, decontamination showers, medical rooms, and independent water and power infrastructure.
The shelter was built between 1972 and 1977 to protect Stockholm and Sollentuna leaders in case of atomic war. Its construction reflected Sweden's strategy to ensure government continuity even under the worst circumstances.
The facility reflects how Sweden prepared to protect its government leaders during the Cold War and reveals the deep concerns about nuclear threats that shaped national planning. Visitors can see today how seriously authorities took these risks.
The facility has limited public access, so check ahead and arrange a guided tour beforehand. Visits work best on scheduled tour dates, as independent access is restricted.
The structure rests on massive springs designed to absorb shock waves from nuclear blasts and allow the building to move. This spring-based isolation system was an innovative way to protect the installation from extreme ground movement.
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