Carolina Rediviva
Uppsala University's iconic library, housing the Silver Bible and offering a serene academic atmosphere for study and exploration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for study
Carolina Rediviva
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for study
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Uppsala University's iconic library, housing the Silver Bible and offering a serene academic atmosphere for study and exploration.
"The museum there is amazing! It’s very small but one of the best museums I visited in Sweden."
🎯 Explore the Free Exhibition
Don't miss the amazing museum with ancient manuscripts and interactive displays. It's one of the best in Sweden!
📚 Find Your Study Spot
Take the elevator to upper floors for a nicer, less crowded study experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Silver Bible (Codex Argenteus)
Exhibition Hall
Marvel at this 6th-century manuscript, written in silver and gold, a key to the extinct Gothic language.
Academic Study Spaces
Upper Floors
Find quiet corners and inspiring views for work or study, often described as a more pleasant and less crowded alternative to the ground floor.
Interactive Document Displays
Exhibition Hall
Engage with history through three large interactive screens that allow you to analyze displayed documents up close.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Academic Ambiance
Plan your visit to soak in the atmosphere, whether you're here to study or explore its rich collections.Discover Priceless Artifacts
Carolina Rediviva boasts incredible historical documents. The free exhibition offers a glimpse into ancient languages and scientific breakthroughs, making it a must-see for history buffs and curious minds.Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Explore the Free Exhibition
Don't miss the amazing museum with ancient manuscripts and interactive displays. It's one of the best in Sweden!
📚 Find Your Study Spot
Take the elevator to upper floors for a nicer, less crowded study experience.
🎁 Affordable Gift Shop
Discover unique postcards, prints, and high-end items at very reasonable prices.
☕ Cafe for All
The cafe is great for students; many bring their own food to eat there.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Explore the Free Exhibition
Don't miss the amazing museum with ancient manuscripts and interactive displays. It's one of the best in Sweden!
📚 Find Your Study Spot
Take the elevator to upper floors for a nicer, less crowded study experience.
🎁 Affordable Gift Shop
Discover unique postcards, prints, and high-end items at very reasonable prices.
☕ Cafe for All
The cafe is great for students; many bring their own food to eat there.
🧥 Locker Storage
Utilize the big lockers available for your outdoor gear.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Carolina Rediviva for its fascinating free exhibitions, particularly the Silver Bible and historical documents. The library's beautiful architecture and quiet study spaces are also highly appreciated. While the exhibition area is noted as being small, the interactive displays and the affordable, unique gift shop add significant value to the experience.
"Great exhibition! We saw silver bible, Andrew Celsius’ original workbooks, 1600s Issac newton book and many more great exhibits. All for free. Thank you!"
Aiden A
"The gallery may be small at this library, but there is lots to see! There are three very big interactive screens to analyze the documents on display.
Best of all, it has the most affordable gift shop in Uppsala—maybe in Sweden! So many awesome posters and paper products available, as well as some more high end items like trays,
Umbrellas, etc"
Adam Schwartz
"The museum there is amazing! It’s very small but one of the best museums I visited in Sweden. Also check out their store, it has a nice selection of non expensive and rare postcards and prints.
Also the library itself is nice and old. I recommend taking an elevator and finding a place to work/study on the floors above the ground floor. It’s much nicer and less crowded"
Olga Lockhart
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Carolina Rediviva is centrally located in Uppsala. You can easily reach it by walking from Uppsala Central Station (about 10-15 minutes) or by taking a local bus. Many visitors find it convenient to combine a visit with other Uppsala attractions like Uppsala Cathedral and Uppsala Castle, as it's within walking distance of these landmarks.
While there isn't dedicated visitor parking directly at the library, there are several public parking garages and street parking options available in the vicinity of Uppsala city center. It's often recommended to use public transport or walk if possible, as parking can be limited and costly.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the exhibition and the library itself is generally free! You can explore the impressive collections and admire the architecture without purchasing a ticket.
Opening hours can vary, especially for specific exhibition areas or during holidays. It's best to check the official Uppsala University Library website for the most up-to-date information on opening times before your visit.
Yes, Carolina Rediviva is a functional library with many study areas. Visitors are welcome to find a spot to work or study, particularly on the upper floors which are noted for being quieter and less crowded.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The main draw is the exhibition featuring historical artifacts like the Silver Bible,
While the historical exhibits might be more engaging for older children and adults, the library's atmosphere and the interactive screens can be interesting for younger visitors. The cafe area is also a good spot for families.
Photography policies can vary. Generally, taking photos for personal use without a flash is often permitted in public areas, but it's always best to check for specific signage or ask staff if you're unsure, especially in exhibition areas.
Many visitors describe the atmosphere as academic and inspiring, evoking a 'dark academia' novel feel.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Carolina Rediviva has a gift shop known for its affordable and unique items, including posters, paper products, trays, and umbrellas. It's considered one of the most reasonably priced gift shops in Uppsala.+1
Yes, there is a cafe that is popular with students. It's a welcoming space where many people bring their own food to enjoy, making it a convenient spot for a break.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Families can also take advantage of the cafe area, which is noted as being welcoming for students and a good spot for a break. Many visitors bring their own food, making it a budget-friendly option. The presence of large lockers for storing belongings is also a practical plus for families managing extra gear.
📚 Book Lovers & History Buffs
and original works by figures like Anders Celsius and Isaac Newton Beyond the main exhibits, simply wandering through the halls and appreciating the vast collection of books can be a highlight. The atmosphere fosters a sense of reverence for knowledge and the written word. Don't forget to explore the gift shop, which offers unique and affordable souvenirs related to the library's collections, perfect for commemorating your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Silver Bible: A Gothic Treasure
This 6th-century manuscript is written in the extinct Gothic language using silver and gold ink on purple-dyed parchment. Its survival through centuries of turmoil, including being part of a king's collection and even having parts forged, makes its presence here a remarkable testament to history. Visitors can marvel at its intricate script and understand its significance as a primary source for Gothic linguistics. The exhibition provides context on its journey and importance. Beyond the Silver Bible, the library's exhibition spaces showcase a wealth of other historical documents. You can find original workbooks from renowned scientists like Anders Celsius, whose temperature scale bears his name, and rare 17th-century books, including works by Isaac Newton.
An Academic Haven: Studying at Carolina Rediviva
The library offers a serene and inspiring environment for students and researchers alike. The architecture itself, often described as having a 'dark academia' aesthetic, contributes to a focused and contemplative atmosphere. It's a place where you can feel immersed in the pursuit of knowledge, surrounded by centuries of literature and scholarly work.For those seeking a quiet place to work, Redditors recommend heading to the upper floors of the library. These areas are often described as being more pleasant and less crowded than the ground floor, offering a better chance to find a comfortable spot for extended study sessions.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit