Few names embody Uppsala quite like Carl Linnaeus. Here you’ll find the Linnaeus Garden, the Botanical Garden, Linnaeus’ Hammarby, and Linnaeus’ Sävja – places that shaped him in countless ways, both as a scientist and as a person. Join us on a journey of discovery and explore the cherished spots connected to our very own monarch of flora.
The Småland native who captured Uppsala’s heart
On May 23, 1707, Carl Linnaeus was born in Stenbrohult, Småland – the boy who would become known as the Flower King. His fascination with plants began early, and at the age of 21 he started his studies at Lund University before soon transferring to Uppsala University – the city that would become his life’s work.
Linnaeus developed the world-famous classification system for plants, animals, and minerals, became Rector of Uppsala University in 1750, and was ennobled seven years later. But above all, he was an explorer with a deep passion for the diversity of nature.
In true Linnaean spirit, we invite you to step into nature and experience some of Uppsala’s Linnaean sites – where his legacy still lives on.
The Linnaeus Garden
The Linnaeus Garden – Uppsala’s Green Oasis
Even though we live three centuries too late, you can still encounter a living, breathing Linnaeus. In the Linnaeus Garden – a lush retreat in the heart of the city – you can join a guided tour led by a 1700s-clad Linnaeus, convincingly portrayed by Uppsala legend Hans Odöö. But the Linnaeus Garden is remarkable for several reasons. Not only is it Sweden’s oldest botanical garden, it was also founded by someone other than Linnaeus: Professor of Medicine Olof Rudbeck the Elder. At the time, it served as Uppsala University’s academic garden, primarily cultivating plants for medical care and research, before later being taken over by Linnaeus.
Today, since its restoration in the early 1900s, the garden grows only those plants that Linnaeus himself is known to have cultivated – naturally organized according to his own classification system.
And should you get a little hungry during your visit, you’ll find Café Linné – in plural, in fact – almost next door. On each corner of the intersection between Svartbäcksgatan and, fittingly, Linnégatan, sit two cozy cafés named after Uppsala’s favorite botanist.
Perhaps Uppsala’s most beloved garden, affectionately known as *Botan*, proudly hosts more than 8,000 different plant species.
Botanical Garden
Bombarded by Blooms
From one green oasis to another – Linnaeus, of course, left Uppsala more than one. The Botanical Garden is a vibrant haven, constantly changing and full of life. Perhaps Uppsala’s most beloved garden, affectionately known as Botan, proudly hosts more than 8,000 different plant species. It was here that the plants from the Linnaeus Garden were moved after Linnaeus’ passing.
But the beauty of Botan extends far beyond its flora – the grounds and buildings themselves are stunning. A visit to the majestic yet peaceful Linneanum, a moment of warmth for body and soul in the tropical greenhouse, or attending one of the regular botany-themed events is an absolute must for any Linnaeus enthusiast or plant lover.
In the garden, you’ll also find the charming Café Victoria, the perfect spot to enjoy a coffee while soaking in the lush surroundings.
Linnaeus Hammarby
Linnaeus’ Lush Country Retreats
During what must have been an especially successful year, Carl Linnaeus invested in two estates just outside Uppsala. One of them, Linnaeus’ Hammarby, lies a little over ten kilometers southeast of the city and served as the Linnaeus family’s summer residence. But it wasn’t just a holiday home – students often came here to listen to and learn from Linnaeus, bringing an extra source of income to the household. Today, Linnaeus’ Hammarby stands as one of Sweden’s best-preserved 18th-century farms. Be sure to take a guided tour of the grounds!
A little closer to the city center lies Linnaeus’ Sävja. The Linnaeus family often visited this estate – and the master of the house never hesitated to come here to write, reflect, or simply enjoy the peace of the countryside. It was here he found true serenity. These days, the main house serves as a museum, and the surrounding land is home to sheep, hens, and horses. Linnaeus’ way of life still offers something for everyone, even today!
Linnaeus Trails
Follow in Linnaeus’ Footsteps in Uppsala
One way to reach the Hammarby and Sävja estates is to quite literally walk in Linnaeus’ well-trodden footsteps. The trails where the botanist frequently wandered with his students are today known as the Linnaeus Trails – eight in total. One of them, the Danmark Trail, leads to both of his countryside retreats. Other trails take you to destinations such as the agricultural landscape of Håga, the royal burial mounds in Gamla Uppsala, and Linnaeus’ prebendal estate in Törnby.
