Attractions and Places To See around Knivsta - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Knivsta offer a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Located between Stockholm and Uppsala, the municipality features serene lakes, expansive forests, and ancient landmarks. Visitors can explore a variety of sites, from Iron Age burial grounds to medieval churches. The area provides diverse experiences for those interested in nature and history.
Best attractions and places to see around Knivsta
- The most popular attractions is Uppsala Cathedral, a religious building that is the…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Uppsala Cathedral
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Gunilla Bell Tower
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Gustavianum – Uppsala University Museum
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The Pump House by the Fyrisån River
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Lunsentorpet Cabin
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The anatomy hall is really worth seeing and is worth the visit alone.
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The Gothic Uppsala Cathedral (Uppsala Domkyrka), consecrated in 1435, is the cathedral of the Archdiocese of Uppsala, the parish church of the Uppsala Cathedral parish, and a national shrine of the Church of Sweden. It houses the relics of Sweden's national saint, Saint Erik, and a relic of Saint Bridget. The church is traditionally the coronation and burial church for Swedish kings and queens. Following a fire in the former cathedral (in Gamla Uppsala), the Pope granted permission in 1258 to move the bishopric to present-day Uppsala (then Östra Aros). The move to Domberget took place in 1273. Initially, the existing Saint Erik Chapel was used for services while French builders, under the direction of Etienne de Bonneuil, began constructing a new cathedral. The construction would continue for over a century and a half. The cathedral's towers are the tallest church towers in Scandinavia, reaching 118.7 meters. The most powerful of its five church bells, called Storan, weighs 7,360 kilograms, making it Sweden's largest church bell. The Church of Sweden estimates that around half a million people visit Uppsala Cathedral each year.
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The Gunilla Bell, one of Uppsala's landmarks, was cast in 1588 and donated to the castle church by Queen Gunilla. It was recast in 1759. The inscription on the bell reads in Swedish: "Queen Gunnila had me cast in 1588. Under King Adolf Frederick, I was freed from my infirmity. In the year 1759." Since around 1700, the bell has been rung only once a day, at 6 a.m. and 9 p.m., a total of 151 times, to mark the beginning and end of the day. The ringing of the Gunilla Bell, along with the opening ceremony at the Carolina Rediviva, is a key event of the Walpurgis Night celebrations. At 9 p.m., the curator curatorum delivers the spring address to the students of Uppsala.
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A unique feature of this building is the medical lecture hall, the "Anatomical Theater" (Theatrum anatomicum). The dome in the center of the building was constructed between 1662 and 1663. Medical professor Olof Rudbeck the Elder intended to perform dissections here before an audience of colleagues and students. The Anatomical Theater rises above the other roofs of the Gustavianum, allowing ample light to enter through its many windows. Its basic structure is modeled on the classical Greek amphitheater, but it is built at a significantly steeper angle and offers only standing room for spectators, enabling them to get as close as possible. The theater could accommodate 200 spectators. Rudbeck's lecture hall was long considered the most important theater of its kind in Europe. The hall still exists and is occasionally used for concerts, lectures, or other events.
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The Gustavianum is the oldest surviving building of Uppsala University. It has housed the University Museum since 1997. After a five-year renovation, it reopened on June 24, 2024. Construction of this new, larger building, intended to supplement the teaching facilities of the Academia Carolina, began in 1622. It contained lecture halls, a printing press, a student dining room, student dormitories, and later, a library. With the demolition of the old Academia Carolina in 1778, the Gustavianum became the university's main building until the new university building was constructed in 1887.
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A wooden bell tower with a bell cast by Queen Gunilla in 1588 has stood on the remains of a wall since 1756. This bell is also used in connection with Valborg. Since the beginning of the 20th century, the castle has housed various institutions of Uppsala University, an art museum, and the residence of the Governor of Uppsala County. (SOURCE: Wikipedia)
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At the end of the 1980s, the cathedral received a relic of the hip bone of St. Birgitta from the Birgittine sisters. A modern reliquary was created for this purpose and is located in the Finsta choir. The design of the shrine is inspired by the habit of the Order of the Redeemer. The five red drops of blood symbolize the five wounds of Christ. Birgitta's parents and siblings are also buried in the choir. The shrine of Saint Erik is also located here, which is why the cathedral is also called Erik's Cathedral.
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The grave of the renowned Swedish naturalist Carl von Linné is also located here
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore in Knivsta?
Knivsta offers a variety of natural attractions. You can visit Lake Valloxen, a popular spot for bathing and skating, with scenic cycling routes nearby. The Kungshamn-Morga Nature Reserve along Lake Mälaren provides opportunities for hiking, grilling, and canoeing. Other notable areas include the expansive Lunsen Forest, Gredelby Hagar with its rich flora and birdlife, and Tjäderleksberget, Knivsta's highest point offering picturesque views.
Are there historical sites or cultural landmarks to visit in Knivsta?
Yes, Knivsta is rich in history. Explore Broborg, an ancient Iron Age hillfort, or the Vallbyåsen Burial Ground, another exciting Iron Age site. The monumental Mora Stenar (Stones of Mora) commemorate medieval king elections. You can also visit Saint Stephen's Church, a 14th-century landmark, and other unique medieval churches in the area. For a deeper dive into history, consider the Gustavianum – Uppsala University Museum, which is the oldest surviving building of Uppsala University.
What outdoor activities are available around Knivsta?
Knivsta is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy hiking in areas like the Kungshamn-Morga Nature Reserve or the Lunsen Forest, which is crossed by numerous nature trails. The Uppland Trail, a 400 km long path, also passes through Knivsta. For cycling, there are routes around Lake Valloxen and various options for both road cycling and touring. The Elljusspåret offers illuminated trails for walking, running, and mountain biking, transforming into cross-country skiing tracks in winter. For more detailed routes, explore the Hiking around Knivsta, Road Cycling Routes around Knivsta, and Cycling around Knivsta guides.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in Knivsta?
Many attractions in Knivsta are suitable for families. Natural areas like Lake Valloxen and Gredelby Hagar offer pleasant outdoor experiences. The Knivsta Library is a central meeting place with children's programs. For a unique experience, consider a small hike to Lunsentorpet Cabin, which has a historical interior, a usable stove, and bunk beds, making it a fun destination for an overnight stay or a day trip. The Fitness Centre (Hälsohuset) also has a swimming pool.
Where can I find hiking trails near Knivsta?
Knivsta offers several hiking opportunities. The Kungshamn-Morga Nature Reserve has trails along Lake Mälaren. The Lunsen Forest is crisscrossed with nature trails, and the long-distance Uppland Trail can be joined from Knivsta railway station. For specific routes, you can find options like the Kungshamn-Morga Trail in the Hiking around Knivsta guide.
What is the best time of year to visit Knivsta attractions?
Knivsta's attractions can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for experiencing the rich flora and fauna in areas like Gredelby Hagar and enjoying outdoor activities around Lake Valloxen. Autumn offers beautiful scenery for hiking in the forests. In winter, Lake Valloxen transforms into a skating haven, and the Elljusspåret is used for cross-country skiing.
Are there any unique or hidden gems in the Knivsta area?
Beyond the well-known spots, Knivsta holds some unique places. The Mora Stenar (Stones of Mora) are monumental stones with significant historical value. The Husby-Långhundra Church hosts the annual Husabymarken, a medieval market featuring jousting and processions. For a rustic experience, the Lunsentorpet Cabin, open all year with a historical interior and amenities, is a charming destination for a small hike or an overnight stay.
What are some popular cycling routes around Knivsta?
Knivsta offers diverse cycling routes. You can find scenic paths passing by oak pastures and manor houses around Lake Valloxen. For longer rides, options include loops from Knivsta to the Mora Stones and Alsike Church, or routes that take you towards Linné’s Hammarby. Explore the Road Cycling Routes around Knivsta and Cycling around Knivsta guides for detailed itineraries.
Can I find places for wild swimming in Knivsta?
Yes, Lake Valloxen is a central and popular outdoor paradise for Knivsta residents, featuring fine bathing places like Särsta and Brunnby. These spots are excellent for enjoying a refreshing swim in nature.
What is the most visited religious site near Knivsta?
The most visited religious site is Uppsala Cathedral, located nearby. It is the cathedral of the Archdiocese of Uppsala and a national shrine, known for its Gothic towers, which are the tallest church towers in Scandinavia. It houses relics of Saint Erik and Saint Bridget and is traditionally the coronation and burial church for Swedish royalty.
Are there any viewpoints or scenic spots in Knivsta?
Yes, Tjäderleksberget, Knivsta's highest point, offers picturesque views of the surrounding flatlands and rich agricultural areas. Additionally, the areas around Lake Valloxen and the Kungshamn-Morga Nature Reserve provide beautiful natural vistas.
What is the significance of the Gunilla Bell Tower?
The Gunilla Bell Tower, located in Uppsala, houses a historic bell cast in 1588. It is one of Uppsala's landmarks and plays a key role in the Walpurgis Night celebrations, where its ringing, along with the opening ceremony at the Carolina Rediviva, marks the beginning of spring.
Where can I learn about the history of Uppsala University?
You can learn about the history of Uppsala University at the Gustavianum – Uppsala University Museum. This is the oldest surviving building of the university and houses the University Museum. It features a unique "Anatomical Theater" and various exhibitions on the university's history, art collection, and antiquities.
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