The word Easter probably originates from Ēastre, the Norse goddess of dawn. In the Nordic countries, pre-Christian symbols such as eggs and hares are part of ancient Ēastre festivals, which celebrate fertility. The hare is a symbol of Ēastre because it re-emerges in the spring, and is noted for its fecundity. Throughout Scandinavia, traces of goddess origins survive into modern culture. One fun example is the tradition to dress little children as witches, and send them door to door requesting candy in exchange for decorated pussy willows or crayon drawings.
Stockholm has been the cultural, media, political, and economic center of Sweden since the 13th century, and Swedes have done a marvelous job of showcasing their ancient Viking glory. A visit to Stockholm is unlike any other European capital. Over 30% of the city area is made up of waterways and another 30% is made up of parks and green spaces, giving Stockholm a natural charm
Situated on the border between Lake Mälaren and the 24,000 islands and islets in the archipelago, Stockholm is a watercraft heaven. My favorite way to tour the area is with Strömma Kanalbolaget
My favorite boat ride is to Drottningholm
The Court Theatre at Drottningholm is the oldest surviving theatre in Europe. Built in 1766, it still contains the original stage machinery, all operated by hand. Each summer, it stages wonderful performances of opera almost exactly as they would have been seen and heard in the 18th century. Many of the sets are original, the orchestra uses authentic instruments.
We adored the pleasant boat ride from Stockholm harbor to Fjäderholmarna village. Wood carvers and glass blowers create charming crafts on this child-friendly island. We had a delectable dinner on the waterfront, where there are a variety of restaurants serving traditional Swedish cuisine.
Another fascinating Strömma Kanalbolaget boat excursion is to Björkö, a trading center established in the 750’s, usually referred to as Sweden’s first real town. The narrated boat tour and costumed interpreter at the historical site gave us the sense of travelling over 1,000 years backward in time.
We buy The Stockholm Card
When we first visited to Sweden, many years ago, we stayed at a very special youth hostel called af Chapman
Now that we are no longer spring chickens, our favorite hotel is the Sheraton Stockholm
Airfare from the US to Stockholm varies by season, but shoulder season rates have been under $500 round trip from consolidators like LuckyAirFare.com
If your visit to Stockholm is limited to a one-day cruise excursion, it would be hard to choose between the Vasa Museum or Skansen as the most important attraction, because they are both outrageously interesting. If you have children, then the scales probably tip in favor of Skansen, an outdoor living history museum. To reach Skansen from downtown Stockholm, take the Santa Clause Tram to the royal park of Djurgården.
Easter week 2009
Community Of Sweden
Visitsweden.com
WHAT TO TAKE AWAY FROM THIS ARTICLE:
- The hare is a symbol of Ēastre because it re-emerges in the spring, and is noted for its fecundity.
- Situated on the border between Lake Mälaren and the 24,000 islands and islets in the archipelago, Stockholm is a watercraft heaven.
- Everyone at the palace is in high spirits, in joyful anticipation of Crown Princess Victoria's upcoming wedding in the spring of 2010.