Old Uppsala archaeological area, Royal burial mounds in Uppsala, Sweden
The Old Uppsala archaeological area features three large earthen mounds positioned on a ridge near the city, each standing about 10 meters tall. Surrounding these main mounds are over 250 additional burial mounds that form an extensive cemetery from ancient times.
The mounds were created in the 6th century as burial sites for powerful rulers of the Svea kingdom during the Vendel Period. Excavations in the 1800s uncovered bronze helmets and gold artifacts that proved the high social status of those buried here.
The three mounds served as burial places for the most powerful people of the region, showing how deeply rooted they were in their communities. Walking around them, you can sense the weight of local history and how these monuments still mark the landscape today.
The site is easily reached on foot and connected by walking trails that lead to a medieval church and museum nearby. Wear sturdy shoes since the terrain is hilly and can become slippery in wet weather.
A large ceremonial hall once stood here, measuring about 600 square meters, where rulers gathered for feasts and religious rituals. These remains provide a rare glimpse into how the elite lived during the Iron Age.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
