Info about Sweden
Culture of Sweden
Sweden certainly is a nation quite different from the rest of Europe and its Northern position is due to be connected to it. Situated between Finland and Danemark, Sweden has elaborated one compelling culture that deserves to be discovered.
The official language of Sweden is Swedish, but this is not the only one spoken. In the Northern region, the Sami population lives and one of their own culture bases is their language, the Sami language. Another one spoken is Finish as well as Swedish is also spoken in Finland.
One important part is Swedes life is school and its costs are mostly ensured by Government. A certain period of it, called grundskolan is compulsory and it usually starts at six or seven years. In many cases, the state even gives one meal to the children going to school. A special characteristic of Swedish schools is that here children also learn different crafts such as carving, embroidery, knitting or rug making.
Swedes are certainly into the arts and theatre. Partially, responsible for this is the Swedish Government, who sponsors these domains. As a result, Swedish people can go to different shows and exhibits for just a part of the normal price ticket. Consequently, it is understandable why this nation is such an art enthusiast.
Books also occupy an important part in the inhabitants’ of Sweden life. The Nobel Prize that was created by Swedes was awarded six times to a Swedish writer. In addition, in Sweden there are more than 2 000 libraries, an impressive number for the country’s population. There is no surprise then when Swedes buy more books per person than any other country in Europe.
Just as important as reading for Swedes is singing and some great and famous artists were born here. ABBA needs no further presentation, just like Ace of Bases, The Cardigans or Roxette. Other genres liked by Swedish people are classical music and jazz. Nevertheless, folk music should not be overlooked. The traditional instruments are represented by the accordion, the nychelharp and the fiddle.
The crafts that are so much supported by Swedes are one good way of keeping tradition. Among them we can count woodcarving, with which are created exremely beautiful and detailed objects. Work with glass is also quite popular and the obtained objects can only be admired. However, Swedes also thrive in the ceramics field as well as in the silver and textile domain. All the Swedish work is renown for its quality.
As far as food is concerned, the Swedish Smörgåsbord has become known and adopted all over the world. It is the famous Swedih buffet, where you can find lots of fish dishes, omlettes and even sweets. Moreover, fish represent one dish that is frequently served even though nowadays it has become quite expensive due to pollution.
Sweden is one country that offers you a different perspective and it presents another outlook on life. Surrounded by natural beauties, the Swedes also succeeded in creating one attractive and durable culture.