Gotland - Visby
Although Gotland is the largest island in the Baltic Sea, which has belonged to Sweden since 1645, life here seems to flow sovereignly and quietly. Visby holds the status of Gotland's capital.
Although Gotland is the largest island in the Baltic Sea, which has belonged to Sweden since 1645, life here seems to flow sovereignly and quietly. Visby holds the status of Gotland's capital. The city is located in the north-west of the island by the sea. At its centre lies the old town, or INNERSTADEN, encircled by a 3.5 km long wall built in the mid-13th century.
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In Visby there remain the ruins of 12 medieval churches, and several original houses from ancient times. In the architecture of the houses two colours dominate - limestone grey-white and brick orange.
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The old town possesses the charm of a small town. On every corner one can see sheep sculptures. The sheep is the symbol of Visby, visible on flags, in the coat of arms, and on the many souvenirs.
Visby and especially the old town are full of many varied shops, restaurants, museums, cafés, and hotels. Most shops on weekdays are open from 10:00 to 18:00, on Saturdays from 11:00 to 14:00, closed on Sundays. In the old town there are also shops that operate only during the summer season. This is a fine place to purchase various interior and household goods for a home with ethnic furnishings. There is a wide selection of antique and modern clay vessels, linen and wool products, wooden shelves, toys, and stone and bronze jewellery.
Notably, alcohol is not sold in shops alongside groceries. In Visby there is only one alcoholic beverages shop, Systembolaget. Here, for example, you can choose wine for dinner by browsing either the glass display cases or a catalogue. Shopping is organised by taking a queue number and later naming the drink's code or title.
Upon entering any shop in Visby, the vendor immediately turns to the newcomers with a smile, there is a greeting of "Hej!" and thanks for the purchase - "Tack!" In general, travelling around Gotland, the Gotlanders seem to be the very pinnacle of hospitality. For instance, when cycling, Gotlanders coming from the opposite direction call out the traditional "Hej!" from afar and are ready to enquire even of a stranger how life is going. The myth of Nordic reserve and coolness collapsed. Here are a few Swedish words we managed to memorise - bra (good), dålig (bad), polis (police officer), ja (yes), nej (no). Since we were touring Gotland on our very honeymoon, also relevant were - bröllop (wedding), Jag älskar dig! (I love you!). Incidentally, most Gotlanders also know English or German well.
Upon entering any shop in Visby, the vendor immediately turns to the newcomers with a smile, there is a greeting of "Hej!" and thanks for the purchase - "Tack!" In general, travelling around Gotland, the Gotlanders seem to be the very pinnacle of hospitality. For instance, when cycling, Gotlanders coming from the opposite direction call out the traditional "Hej!" from afar and are ready to enquire even of a stranger how life is going. The myth of Nordic reserve and coolness collapsed. Here are a few Swedish words we managed to memorise - bra (good), dålig (bad), polis (police officer), ja (yes), nej (no). Since we were touring Gotland on our very honeymoon, also relevant were - bröllop (wedding), Jag älskar dig! (I love you!). Incidentally, most Gotlanders also know English or German well.
When you are in Visby, I would recommend definitely visiting the city's botanical garden, BOTANISKA TRÄDGÅRD VISBY (www.dbw.nu). It is open free of charge to all residents and guests. This is a wonderful place for rest, walks, open-air painting, and conversation.
A couple of kilometres south of Visby lies Gotland's highest sea cliff, HÖGKLINT. From there a wonderful view opens onto the sea, Visby harbour, ferries, and yacht moorings.
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To feel the grandeur and height of the cliff face, it is worth scrambling down the narrow, rocky path and creeping under the hem of HÖGKLINT's stone skirts.
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