Anundshög

Anundshög Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Traveler’s Guide to Historical Sites in Västerås, Sweden

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction: Anundshög’s Place in Swedish History

Located just east of Västerås, Anundshög is Sweden’s largest and most significant Viking burial mound, offering visitors a profound glimpse into the Iron Age and Viking Age societies of Scandinavia. Rising 9 meters high and stretching over 60 meters in diameter, this monumental mound is surrounded by a complex landscape of burial mounds, stone ship settings, stone circles, and the noteworthy Vs 13 runestone. Anundshög stood not only as a ceremonial and burial site for the elite but also as a political meeting ground—where assemblies convened and Swedish kings traversed the Eriksgata for royal confirmation. Today, Anundshög remains a symbol of Sweden’s ancient heritage and is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and travelers to Västerås.

This guide details Anundshög’s cultural and historical significance, practical visitor information (including visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and tours), and nearby attractions, ensuring a rich and rewarding visit. For additional reading and current updates, see sources such as The Viking Herald and Erratic Engineeress.

Historical and Archaeological Overview

Origins and Significance

Anundshög’s origins date from the late Iron Age to the Viking Age (c. 400–1050 AD). The main burial mound is the largest in Sweden, but the landscape includes at least 12 additional burial mounds, five stone ship settings, over 20 stone circles, and standing stones. These features collectively emphasize the site’s importance as both a burial and ceremonial center for elite society (Erratic Engineeress).

Stone Ship Settings and Rituals

The site’s most distinctive features are its stone ship settings—large stones arranged in the outline of ships, symbolizing the journey to the afterlife in Norse belief. Archaeological evidence, such as cremated remains and burnt offerings, points to the use of these stone ships for funeral rituals (Runaway Brit; Erratic Engineeress).

The Runestone and Anundshög’s Name

Beside the main mound stands the Vs 13 runestone, inscribed by Folkvid for his son Heden, Anund’s brother:
“Folkvid raised all of these stones after his son Heden, Anund’s brother. Vred carved the runes.”
(The Viking Herald; Nordic Whimsy)

The site’s name is traditionally associated with King Anund, a semi-legendary figure of the Yngling dynasty, though the actual occupant of the mound remains unknown.

Legends, Power, and the Eriksgata

Mythology and legend surround Anundshög, linking it to ancient kings and ceremonial processions. As a “thingstead,” it hosted local assemblies and court sessions within its stone circles. Its placement along the Eriksgata, the route for royal processions, further marks its importance as a center of political power (Nordic Whimsy).

Ongoing Archaeological Discoveries

Excavations continue to reveal cremation burials, animal bones, and ritual objects, documenting Scandinavia’s transition from paganism to Christianity and providing insights into ancient funerary customs (Erratic Engineeress).

Practical Visitor Information

Location and Getting There

Anundshög is about 5–9 kilometers east of Västerås city center in Västmanland.

By Car: Follow signs to Anundshög; free parking is adjacent to the site.
By Bus: Take local lines (e.g., 12, 21, or 22) from Västerås Central Station.
By Bicycle: Scenic countryside routes lead straight to the site.
Address/GPS: Anundshög 5, Västerås; GPS 59.6242° N, 16.6683° E.

Visiting Hours

Outdoor Site: Open 24/7 year-round with free access.
Information Center: Open May–September, daily 10:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Guided Tours: Offered June–August, typically afternoons (14:00–15:00), with extra evening tours in July. Confirm current schedules on the Visit Västerås website.

Tickets and Admission

Site Entry: Free for independent visits.
Guided Tours: Approximately 60 SEK per person; advance booking recommended for summer tours.

Accessibility and Facilities

Parking: Free, adjacent to the site.
Restrooms: Available near parking.
Information Desk & Gift Shop: Staffed in peak season; souvenirs and guidebooks for sale.
Paths: Marked trails, generally accessible; some uneven terrain and hills may require sturdy footwear or assistance.
Picnic Areas: Benches and tables; bring your own food and water as on-site café service is seasonal.

Visitor Tips

Wear comfortable shoes for grassy and uneven paths.
Bring water and snacks, especially outside summer months.
Photography is permitted; check for restrictions during special events.
Dogs are welcome on a leash.

Guided Tours and Educational Resources

Guided Tours: Led by knowledgeable guides in Swedish and English (in summer). Enrich your visit with archaeological and cultural insights.
Self-Guided Options: Bilingual interpretive signs, downloadable audio guides, and brochures are available at the Information Center and online (Visit Västerås).
School and Group Visits: Educational programs and workshops can be arranged for groups—contact the tourist center for details.

Best Time to Visit and Seasonal Events

May to August: Mild weather, lush landscapes, and the most frequent guided tours.
Summer Events: Viking Days, historical reenactments, and workshops; check local event calendars for schedules.
Winter: Open for visits but with limited facilities; atmospheric under snow.

Site Etiquette and Preservation

Stay on marked paths and use stairs when climbing the mound.
Do not climb or sit on stone ships or runestones.
Respect all signs regarding restricted areas, photography, and drone use.
Carry out your trash and leave no trace.

What to Bring

Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear.
Camera (respecting any restrictions).
Water, snacks, and possibly a picnic.
Guidebook or audio guide for deeper exploration.

Nearby Historical Attractions

Västerås Cathedral: Medieval church in city center.
Västerås Castle: 16th-century castle and museum.
Badelunda Church: 13th-century church near Anundshög.
Tibble Labyrinth: Stone labyrinth 1 km south.
Sigurdsristningen: Viking Age rock carving 13 km away.
Björnön Island: Nature area for walking and swimming.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Anundshög’s opening hours?
A: The site is open 24/7 year-round. The Information Center operates May–September, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: No, entry is free. Guided tours may require a ticket.

Q: Are guided tours available in English?
A: Yes, during summer—check schedules in advance.

Q: Is Anundshög wheelchair accessible?
A: Main paths are mostly level, but some areas are uneven. Assistance may be needed.

Q: Can I bring my dog?
A: Yes, dogs are welcome if kept on a leash.

Conclusion and Traveler’s Summary

Anundshög is a monumental testament to Sweden’s Viking and Iron Age heritage. Its burial mound, stone ships, and runestones offer a fascinating journey into ancient Scandinavian rituals, power, and mythology. With free year-round access, accessible facilities, and proximity to other Västerås historical sites, it’s an essential destination for history lovers and curious travelers alike.

For up-to-date visiting hours, event schedules, and guided tour information, consult the Visit Västerås website and consider using the Audiala app for audio guides and news. Enhance your trip by exploring nearby attractions, participating in cultural events, and savoring the unique landscape and legends of this remarkable site.

References

Beyond Birka: Viking Sites Around Lake Mälaren That Shaped Swedish History, 2021, The Viking Herald (https://thevikingherald.com/article/beyond-birka-viking-sites-around-lake-maelaren-that-shaped-swedish-history/1181)
Västerås and Anundshög, 2023, Erratic Engineeress (https://erraticengineeress.blog/vasteras-and-anundshog/)
Anundshög: Sweden’s Largest Viking Burial Site, 2012, Runaway Brit (https://www.runawaybrit.com/2012/07/07/anundshog-swedens-largest-viking-burial-site/)
20 Day Twenty: Sigtuna and Anundshög in Pursuit of Runestones, Historical Ruins and Mysteries, 2022, Nordic Whimsy (https://www.nordicwhimsy.com/en/post/20-day-twenty-sigtuna-and-anundsh%C3%B6g-in-pursuit-of-runestones-historical-ruins-and-mysteries)
Anundshög Visiting Hours, Tickets & Guide to Västerås’ Largest Burial Mound, 2024, Visit Västerås (https://visitvasteras.se/)

For visuals:

Use high-quality images of the Anundshög mound, stone ships, and runestones, with descriptive alt text (e.g., “Anundshög burial mound, Västerås historical site”).
Provide a map showing Anundshög’s location relative to Västerås.
Include event photos, especially from Viking Days reenactments.

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