Welcome to Gamlestaden, Gothenburg

Gamlestaden, located in the eastern part of Gothenburg, Sweden, is a historically rich neighbourhood that overlays the medieval settlement of Nya Lödöse and has evolved into a lively, culturally diverse district. Today, it combines architectural heritage, ongoing archaeological discoveries, and vibrant community life.

Historical Context

Gamlestaden sits atop the former medieval city of Nya Lödöse (1473–1624), which was gradually abandoned after the foundation of Gothenburg in 1621. The name “Gamlestaden” (“Old Town”) emerged as the area became farmland and later an industrial zone in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Recent archaeological excavations have uncovered ramparts, moats, timber foundations, and artifacts that reveal the layout and life of the medieval city beneath the current urban fabric.

Landmarks

• The site of Nya Lödöse: archaeological discovery of medieval ramparts, moat, and settlement remains beneath present-day Gamlestaden
• SKF Factory Buildings: Historic industrial structures belonging to the renowned bearing manufacturer SKF, which was founded in Gamlestaden in 1907
• Bunkeberget Viewpoint: A scenic overlook offering grand views of the old SKF factory and the surrounding area, part of local heritage
• Bellevue Market (Bellevue marknad): Gothenburg’s oldest indoor flea market, situated in the Gamlestaden-Bellevue area, home to small businesses and cultural associations

Museums

• Museum of Gothenburg (Göteborgs stadsmuseum)

  Located near Gamlestaden, this museum is housed in the historic East India Company building and presents Gothenburg’s evolution from prehistoric times to industrial modernity. It features a Viking ship exhibit and a children’s section (goteborg.com).

  Visit Website

  Opening Hours: Tuesday 10:00–18:00 (Wednesday until 20:00); Thursday 10:00–18:00; Friday–Sunday 10:00–17:00; closed Monday. Closed on major public holidays (goteborgsstadsmuseum.se).

  Ticket Price: Day ticket adult 70 SEK; free under 20 and students; Museum Card 140 SEK (senior 120 SEK) valid at multiple museums (goteborgsstadsmuseum.se).

• Gothenburg Museum of Natural History

  A major science museum located centrally in Gothenburg, offering exhibitions on natural history and biodiversity (gnm.se).

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  Opening Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday–Sunday 11:00–17:00; Thursday 11:00–20:00; closed Monday. Special holidays according to calendar (gnm.se).

  Ticket Price: Day ticket 70 SEK; annual pass 140 SEK (senior 120 SEK); free for under 20 and students (gnm.se).

Tips for Visitors

• Explore Gamlestaden on foot to discover hidden historic layers and recent archaeological sites related to Nya Lödöse.
• Combine visits to the Museum of Gothenburg and the Natural History Museum using a Museum Card for savings and convenience.
• Visit Bellevue Market for a taste of local culture, vintage shopping, and immersive community life.

Sources

• Excavation of Nya Lödöse and medieval remains beneath Gamlestaden (popularmechanics.com)
• Historical transformation from Nya Lödöse to Gamlestaden (link.springer.com)
• Museum of Gothenburg—history, opening hours, tickets (goteborg.com)
• Gothenburg Museum of Natural History—visit info, hours, and prices (gnm.se)