About SE
Sweden is a country located in Northern Europe, bordered by Norway to the west and Finland to the east. It has a total area of 450,295 square kilometers and a population of approximately 10.4 million people.
The capital and largest city of Sweden is Stockholm. The official language is Swedish, and the currency is the Swedish krona.
Sweden is a constitutional monarchy, with a king or queen as the head of state and a prime minister as the head of government. The country has a mixed economy with a strong emphasis on export-oriented manufacturing, particularly in the automotive and telecommunications sectors.
Sweden is known for its natural beauty, with vast forests, lakes, and mountains offering opportunities for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities. The country is also renowned for its design and fashion, with brands such as IKEA, H&M, and Volvo has achieved worldwide recognition. Additionally, Sweden is recognized for its commitment to social welfare, gender equality, and environmental sustainability.
National Culture Objects
Dala Horse
The Dala horse is a traditional carved, painted wooden horse from the province of Dalarna. It symbolizes Swedish craftsmanship and folk culture.
Smörgåsbord
The smörgåsbord is a traditional Swedish buffet-style meal with a variety of hot and cold dishes. It represents Sweden's rich culinary traditions and communal eating culture.
Midsummer Pole (Midsommarstång)
The Midsummer pole is a decorated pole around which Swedes dance during Midsummer celebrations. It symbolizes the importance of seasonal festivals and traditions in Swedish culture.
Lucia Crown
The Lucia crown is worn by the girl who portrays Saint Lucia during the Lucia Day celebrations. It symbolizes light and hope during the dark winter months.
The Vasa Ship
The Vasa ship is a 17th-century warship that sank on its maiden voyage and was later salvaged. It symbolizes Sweden’s maritime history and is now a museum in Stockholm.
IKEA Furniture
IKEA furniture, known for its modern design and affordability, symbolizes Sweden’s impact on global design and its cultural emphasis on practicality and simplicity.
ABBA
ABBA, the world-famous pop group from Sweden, symbolizes the country's contributions to global music and pop culture.
Swedish Sauna (Bastu)
The sauna is an integral part of Swedish culture, representing the country's focus on wellness, relaxation, and connection with nature.
The national anthem of Sweden is called "Du gamla, du fria" (Thou ancient, Thou free), also commonly referred to as "Sveriges nationalsång" (Sweden's national song). It has been the official national anthem of Sweden since 1983.
The lyrics of "Du gamla, du fria" were written by Richard Dybeck in 1844, and the melody was composed by folk musician Carl Wilhelm. The anthem is typically sung at official state ceremonies and public events, and it is often played at the start and end of the day on Swedish radio and television.
The first verse of the anthem, which is usually sung, goes as follows:
Du gamla, du fria, du fjällhöga nord
Du tysta, du glädjerika sköna!
Jag hälsar dig, vänaste land uppå jord,
Din sol, din himmel, dina ängder gröna.
Translated into English, the verse means:
Thou ancient, thou free, thou mountainous North
In beauty and peace, beloved and renowned!
With joy I greet thee, most glorious realm on earth,
Thy sun, thy skies, thy meadows green around.
