Swedens next world heritage site?

[Curt Landin]

Hälsingegårdarna, the many ancient farmhouses of Hälsingland county, might very well be Sweden´s next world heritage site. These so called “wooden castles” are impressive in its architecture and decoration, dating back to the 18th century, and still in use. Guided tours are available summertime and you can even stay overnight in some of them.
An application for Hälsingegårdarna to be listed as a World Heritage site has been prepared for a couple of years now. Deadline is in june 2009, when it will be decided by UNESCO.

One of the more authentic ones are Renshammar (see photo) in Bollnäs town, where a room is still untouched since the 17th century. Owner Cathrine Palmcrantz has successfully turned the ancient farm into a cultural oasis with hiqh quality folk music performances by international top names like Sofia Karlsson and many more.

More info at Hälsingegårdar and Renshammar (sorry, both in Swedish only....)

Photo: Cathrine Palmcrantz

[Karen Bryan]

Curt, it looks very beautiful and decorative for a farmhouse.