Uppsala Celsius Observatory building with unique roof design surrounded by trees and blue sky

Celsiushuset

Celsiushuset Uppsala: Complete Visitor Guide, Hours, Tickets, and Historical Insights

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Uppsala, Sweden, Celsiushuset is a historic site that blends centuries of academic excellence with architectural charm. Named after Anders Celsius—the renowned Swedish astronomer and inventor of the Celsius temperature scale—Celsiushuset is not only a monument to scientific achievement but also a vibrant part of Uppsala’s rich cultural and intellectual landscape. While it primarily functions as an academic and commercial building today, its medieval origins, scientific legacy, and central location make it a key destination for history enthusiasts, science lovers, and cultural explorers alike.

This comprehensive guide presents everything you need to know about visiting Celsiushuset: current visiting hours, ticketing and accessibility information, guided tour options, nearby attractions, and practical tips for a memorable experience. If you want to explore more or plan your visit, consult the official Uppsala University visitor page and the Destination Uppsala tourism portal.

Celsiushuset at a Glance
Practical Visitor Information
Location & Accessibility
Visiting Hours
Tickets & Booking
Facilities & Amenities
Historical Overview
Medieval Origins & Observatory Role
Anders Celsius’s Scientific Legacy
Architectural Features
Highlights & Points of Interest
What to See & Do Nearby
Visitor Tips & Sustainability
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Contact & Resources
Conclusion

Celsiushuset at a Glance

Celsiushuset is centrally situated at Svartbäcksgatan 7–11 (sometimes referenced as S:t Olofsgatan 10 or Celsiusgatan) in Uppsala, placing it within walking distance of major landmarks such as Uppsala Cathedral, the Carolina Rediviva Library, and the Gustavianum Museum. Though not a conventional museum, Celsiushuset’s history is intertwined with the development of Swedish science and Uppsala’s academic legacy. Its proximity to other major attractions makes it an essential stop for those exploring the city’s rich historical fabric (Life in Norway, Tourist Places Guide).

Practical Visitor Information

Location & Accessibility

Address: Svartbäcksgatan 7–11, 753 20 Uppsala, Sweden
Getting There: Celsiushuset is a 10-minute walk from Uppsala Central Station, with multiple city bus lines and cycling routes nearby (Uppsala kollektivtrafik). Public parking, including spaces for motorhomes, is available in the vicinity.
Accessibility: The building offers partial accessibility, with ramps and elevators where possible. For detailed accessibility inquiries, contact Uppsala University visitor services.

Visiting Hours

Standard Hours: As of July 2025, general access is available Monday to Friday, 08:00–17:00. Guided tours and special events may allow extended or weekend access. Always check the official tourism website or contact the building administration for up-to-date information.
Special Events: Visiting hours may vary during holidays, Midsummer, or cultural events.

Tickets & Booking

General Admission: Entry is typically free when visiting public areas or exhibitions.
Guided Tours: Tours usually require tickets, priced between 50–150 SEK. Discounts are available for students, seniors, and children. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during high season or for English-language tours (Allard Stadsvandringar).
Payment: Sweden is largely cashless, so bring an international credit or debit card (Little Grey Box).

Facilities & Amenities

Restrooms: Public restrooms are available at Celsiushuset and nearby locations, including Uppsala Central Station (Destination Uppsala).
Wi-Fi: While Celsiushuset may lack dedicated Wi-Fi, free internet is widely available in city cafes, the station, and libraries.
Luggage Storage: Secure storage is offered at Uppsala Central Station, with electronic lockers rentable by the day.

Historical Overview

Medieval Origins & Observatory Role

Celsiushuset’s history stretches back to before 1643, likely aligned with Uppsala’s medieval street grid and initially serving as a själagård, or charitable home, near S:t Pers kyrka. In 1738, Anders Celsius acquired the property and established Sweden’s first university observatory, completed in 1741. The observatory housed state-of-the-art instruments and was pivotal in astronomical and meteorological research, maintaining some of Europe’s oldest continuous climate records since 1722 (Life in Norway).

Anders Celsius’s Scientific Legacy

Anders Celsius (1701–1744) was a professor at Uppsala University, famed internationally for inventing the Celsius temperature scale in 1742. Celsiushuset served as his residence and workplace, and the building’s observatory became a hub for scientific advancement, supporting Sweden’s oldest scientific society—the Royal Society of Sciences in Uppsala.

Architectural Features

The current stone structure, dating from the 18th century, is a rare example of early Swedish academic architecture. Its medieval alignment, neoclassical façade, and robust construction reflect centuries of adaptation, from observatory and student housing to academic offices and commercial spaces. Major renovations in the 1960s preserved its historic character while modernizing for ongoing university use (Tourist Places Guide).

Highlights & Points of Interest

Commemorative Statues and Plaques: Celsiustorget, the nearby square, features a statue of Anders Celsius and interpretive signage.
Architectural Details: The building’s façade, courtyard, and commemorative plaques offer excellent photo opportunities, especially during golden hour.
Temporary Exhibitions: Occasional displays and educational panels highlight the scientific legacy of Celsius and Uppsala University.
Historical Records: The site is associated with some of Europe’s oldest weather data and astronomical observations.

What to See & Do Nearby

Celsiushuset’s central location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Uppsala’s top attractions:

Uppsala Cathedral (Domkyrka): Scandinavia’s largest cathedral, famous for its Gothic architecture.
Carolina Rediviva Library: Home to historical collections and the Silver Bible.
Gustavianum Museum: Exhibits on science and university history.
Botanical Garden: Lush grounds for relaxed strolls in summer.
Local Cafés: Experience Swedish fika at traditional bakeries and coffee houses (Little Grey Box).

Visitor Tips & Sustainability

Plan Ahead: Check for the latest visiting hours and guided tour schedules before your visit.
Combine Visits: Pair Celsiushuset with other nearby sites for a comprehensive cultural experience.
Photography: The exterior and courtyard are most photogenic in early morning or late afternoon.
Sustainability: Walk, cycle, or use public transport to reduce your environmental impact. Recycle and support local, eco-friendly businesses (Little Grey Box).
Accessibility: Contact visitor services in advance if you have special needs to ensure accommodations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Celsiushuset’s opening hours?
A: Typically weekdays, 08:00–17:00; check official sources for updates and special event times.

Q: Is admission free?
A: Entry is usually free for public areas; guided tours may require a ticket.

Q: Are tours available in English?
A: Yes, most tours are offered in both Swedish and English.

Q: Is the site accessible for disabled visitors?
A: Yes, with ramps and elevators; contact staff for specific needs.

Q: Can I take photographs inside Celsiushuset?
A: Photography is allowed in public spaces; check for restrictions during special exhibitions.

Q: Are there virtual or audio tours?
A: Yes, downloadable audio guides and the Audiala app provide self-guided experiences.

Contact & Resources

Uppsala University Visitor Information
Destination Uppsala
Uppsala Public Transport (UL)
Guided Tours Booking
Uppsala Event Calendar
Uppsala Municipality Contact: [email protected] | +46 18-727 00 00

Conclusion

Celsiushuset stands as a testament to Uppsala’s enduring legacy of scientific discovery and cultural vitality. Its medieval roots, pivotal role in astronomy, and ongoing presence within Uppsala University’s academic community make it a fascinating destination. Whether you join a guided tour, explore the surrounding historical sites, or simply pause for a photo in the courtyard, a visit to Celsiushuset will enrich your understanding of Sweden’s academic heritage.

For the latest updates, guided tour information, and immersive experiences—including audio guides—visit the Uppsala University visitor page or download the Audiala app. Enjoy your journey through time at Celsiushuset and discover the remarkable history at the very heart of Uppsala.