Discovering Uppsala’s Hidden Histories: A 1-Hour Tour of Swedish Darkness
Uppsala, often celebrated for its stunning cathedral and vibrant university scene, also has a darker side that isn’t usually in the guidebooks. For just $36.58 per person, you can join a 1-hour guided walk that peels back the layers of Uppsala’s more shadowy past. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour takes you through streets and sites that reveal the city’s involvement in everything from racial science to public health crises and social struggles.
What we love about this experience is how it balances historical depth with engaging storytelling. You’ll walk through areas like Svartbäcksgatan, once home to Uppsala’s red-light district of the 19th century, and learn about poverty, vice, and societal margins. Plus, the visit inside the Gustavianum museum offers a fascinating look into Sweden’s racial biology institute and 19th-century anatomical practices—a stark reminder of how science can sometimes go astray.
One thing to consider is that this tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues, as it involves walking through city streets and historic sites. Also, at just an hour, it’s a quick overview—not an in-depth excavation—so if you’re craving a longer, more detailed experience, this might just be a starting point.
This tour is perfect for history buffs eager to explore lesser-known stories, students of social sciences, or visitors curious about the darker chapters of Swedish history. If you’re interested in exploring Uppsala beyond its famous sights and want a guided experience that’s both informative and thought-provoking, this tour is definitely worth considering.
Key Points
- Historical Depth: Focuses on Uppsala’s darker chapters, including racial biology, plagues, and social issues.
- Compact and Instructive: A 1-hour tour that provides a thoughtful overview without being overwhelming.
- Engaging Guides: Led by knowledgeable guides who bring history alive with detailed stories.
- Authentic Locations: Visits to streets like Svartbäcksgatan and sites like the Gustavianum museum.
- Affordable: At $36.58, this tour offers good value for a unique glimpse into Uppsala’s hidden past.
- Limited Accessibility: Not suited for travelers with mobility challenges due to walking and site visits.
While in Uppsala, here are other experiences we've covered
A Deep Dive into Uppsala’s Dark Past
Walking Through Uppsala’s Shadowy Streets
Our journey starts outside Uppsala City Library, where the guide, perhaps a charismatic local, begins to unfold stories that aren’t part of the usual tourist fare. We’re introduced to Dragabrunnsgatan, the city’s red-light district during the 19th century. Walking past streets like Svartbäcksgatan, you can almost hear echoes of prostitution, alcohol problems, and poverty that characterized that era. One reviewer notes, “Väldigt intressant och trots att jag är Uppsalabo fick jag lära mig massa nytt,” highlighting how even locals learn surprising facts about their city’s less-glamorous history.
The 18th Century Plague and Urban Struggles
Next, we visit St Erik’s Square where the plague of 1709-1712 devastated Uppsala’s population. Here, the stories of desperation, disease, and death remind us of how fragile life was. This site, combined with the guide’s vivid descriptions, paints a picture of a city battling both health crises and social upheavals. As one reviewer observed, “Väldigt intressant och trots att jag är Uppsalabo fick jag lära mig massa nytt,” reinforcing that even longtime residents find new insights here.
Inside the Gustavianum Museum
The highlight of the tour is a quick stop inside the Gustavianum, Uppsala University’s museum. This is where the shadowy side of scientific progress comes into focus. Visitors learn about Sweden’s racial biology institute and the disturbing rules of the anatomical department—which crimes or social deviations could lead to dissection or sterilization. The museum also covers slave trade history and phrenology—a pseudoscience from the 19th century aiming to measure personality traits by skull shape.
While you're exploring Uppsala, here are other experiences we've looked into
- Adventure parc
- Cube of Art Uppsala Museum of Interactive Art
- Guided tour 90min at Old Uppsala mounds and old Uppsala church
- Uppsala: SUP Board Rental with Life Jacket and Paddle
- Uppsala bloody history 1h- racial biology, 18th century plague, 19th century prostitution etc.
- Roofwalking on the worlds greatest pink castle!
The Dark Side of Science and Society
The early 20th-century sterilizations and racial laws are not glossed over here. This part of the tour is particularly eye-opening, with the guide explaining how Sweden, like many countries, once believed in scientific racism and eugenics. Critics of the time justified forced sterilizations as necessary, a dark chapter that reminds us how science must be handled carefully.
Persecution of Dissenters and Religious Minorities
The Uppsala Cathedral and the Dean’s House tell stories of persecutions against dissenters and atheists during the 19th century, emphasizing the tension between state, church, and individual rights. This segment reveals that freedom of thought has not always been a given, even in a city as historically prominent as Uppsala.
Why This Tour Stands Out
The strength of this tour lies in its balanced storytelling—it doesn’t sensationalize but rather presents challenging historical truths with clarity. The knowledgeable guides, who often respond to questions with enthusiasm and depth, help you understand why these stories matter today. One reviewer praised a “very knowledgeable guide who answered all our questions,” highlighting how this human element makes all the difference.
The Value of a Short, Focused Experience
At just an hour, the tour is designed for those who want a quick but meaningful peek into Uppsala’s lesser-known history. The price point makes it accessible, and the mobile ticket system simplifies logistics. While it’s a rapid overview, it offers enough depth to spark curiosity or supplement a longer stay.
Who Will Appreciate This?
This tour appeals most to travelers with a keen interest in social and political history, academics, or those who enjoy uncovering taboo topics. It’s also suitable for history buffs who want to go beyond the typical tourist spots and see Uppsala through a more critical lens.
Final Words: Is It Worth It?
Absolutely, especially if you’re eager to explore Uppsala’s hidden stories—stories that challenge the more polished image of Sweden. The knowledgeable guides and well-chosen sites ensure that this experience is engaging, educational, and sometimes unsettling, but always authentic.
While it’s a quick tour, it packs a punch—giving you a different perspective on a city best known for its cathedral and university. It’s a perfect starting point for anyone wanting a balanced, honest look at Uppsala’s past that continues to influence its present.
Best suited for:
- Curious travelers wanting to explore less glamorous stories
- History enthusiasts interested in social and scientific dark chapters
- Visitors with a moderate walking ability who appreciate guided storytelling
- Those looking for value and authenticity in a short tour
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a quick but insightful experience.
What locations are visited?
We start outside the Uppsala City Library, walk through Svartbäcksgatan and Dragabrunnsgatan, visit St Erik’s Square, and include a stop inside Gustavianum museum and the Uppsala Cathedral.
Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Since the tour involves walking through streets and sites, it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness—it might not be ideal for travelers with mobility challenges.
What is included in the price?
All fees and taxes are covered, including entry to the sites, but gratuities are not included.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is allowed if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.
Is this tour appropriate for children or families?
While not explicitly stated, the content is quite serious, and younger children might find some topics distressing. It’s best suited for older children and adults interested in history.
To sum it up, this Uppsala bloody history tour offers an unvarnished look into some of the city’s darker stories, told with expertise and passion. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to go beyond the surface and understand the complex, sometimes uncomfortable parts of Swedish history. If you’re a history lover, a curious traveler, or someone interested in social sciences, this compact tour will leave you with plenty to think about—and perhaps a new appreciation for Uppsala’s layered past.