Gustavianum Uppsala University Museum
Explore Uppsala University's history, ancient artifacts, and a 17th-century anatomical theater in Sweden's oldest university building.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration.
Gustavianum Uppsala University Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Uppsala University's history, ancient artifacts, and a 17th-century anatomical theater in Sweden's oldest university building.
"A well-arranged and educational museum, a great opportunity to visit the anatomical theatre."
🎧 Use the Audio Guides
Podcasts are available in English and Swedish, offering amazing insights into the exhibits.
⏳ Don't Rush Your Visit
Allow plenty of time; there's more to see than you might expect!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
17th-Century Anatomical Theater
Top floor
Step into one of Europe's oldest preserved dissection rooms, a fascinating glimpse into early medical education.
+1
Augsburg Art Cabinet
Main exhibition
Marvel at this elaborate 17th-century cabinet of curiosities, a treasure trove of intricate craftsmanship and historical objects.
Egyptian Child Sarcophagus
Exhibition hall
See a repatriated ancient Egyptian sarcophagus, a poignant artifact with a compelling story of discovery and return.
Anders Celsius's Original Thermometer
Exhibition hall
Discover the original thermometer created by the astronomer Anders Celsius, a key piece of scientific history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Special Exhibits
Allocate Ample Time
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎧 Use the Audio Guides
Podcasts are available in English and Swedish, offering amazing insights into the exhibits.
⏳ Don't Rush Your Visit
Allow plenty of time; there's more to see than you might expect!
📍 Location is Key
Conveniently located near Uppsala Cathedral, making it easy to combine with other city sights.
🏛️ Recently Renovated
The museum reopened after extensive renovations, offering a refreshed visitor experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎧 Use the Audio Guides
Podcasts are available in English and Swedish, offering amazing insights into the exhibits.
⏳ Don't Rush Your Visit
Allow plenty of time; there's more to see than you might expect!
📍 Location is Key
Conveniently located near Uppsala Cathedral, making it easy to combine with other city sights.
🏛️ Recently Renovated
The museum reopened after extensive renovations, offering a refreshed visitor experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Gustavianum for its well-arranged and educational exhibits, particularly highlighting the unique Anatomical Theater and the historical significance of the university's oldest building. The availability of English audio guides and the respectful preservation of artifacts are frequently commended. Some visitors wished for more content specifically on Uppsala's broader history, but overall, the museum is considered a worthwhile and engaging experience that requires ample time to fully appreciate.
"A well-arranged and educational museum. We had a good time in exploring history of Uppsala University. Personally, it was a great opportunity to visit the anatomical theatre, which I only read in my textbooks of medicine history back then."
Elissa Li
"It’s a nice museum. I expected to see more about Uppsala history. The were so kind and respectful. They keep the objects so perfectly and the podcasts related to objects was truly amazing and great idea. Also, there wasn’t just in Swedish language, I listened in English so easily"
Shahrzad Haghir
"We happened to have arrived at the museum right before the guided tour, which is very informative."
Rick Lei
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gustavianum is centrally located in Uppsala, easily accessible by foot from the city center. It's situated across from Uppsala Cathedral. Public transport options are also available, with bus stops nearby.
Uppsala is located north of Stockholm, approximately an hour's train ride away. Gustavianum is in the heart of Uppsala, so once you arrive in the city, it's easy to reach.
The most convenient way to travel from Stockholm to Uppsala is by train, with frequent departures from Stockholm Central Station. The journey takes about 40-50 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Gustavianum is typically open Tuesday to Sunday from 11 AM to 5 PM, and closed on Mondays. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current opening hours, especially around holidays.
Admission prices can vary, but it's generally an affordable museum. Check the official Gustavianum website for the latest ticket prices and any potential discounts.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially if you plan to visit during peak times or for special exhibitions. This can help you avoid queues.
Information on free admission days is not widely publicized. It's best to consult the museum's official website or contact them directly for any special offers or free entry periods.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the 17th-century Anatomical Theater, the Augsburg Art Cabinet, the Egyptian child sarcophagus, and Anders Celsius's original thermometer.
Yes, Gustavianum offers fascinating exhibits that can engage children, particularly the anatomical theater and historical artifacts. The audio guides can also make the visit more interactive.
Most visitors find that 2-3 hours are needed to fully explore the museum, though some may spend longer if they delve deeply into the exhibits.
Yes, guided tours are often available and are highly recommended for a more informative experience. Check the museum's schedule for tour times.
Photography policies can vary. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted, but it's best to check for specific restrictions on certain exhibits.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Gustavianum itself may not have a full-service restaurant, but there are often cafes or snack areas. Uppsala city center, just outside the museum, offers a wide array of dining options.
The area around Gustavianum and Uppsala Cathedral is filled with cafes and restaurants offering Swedish cuisine and international options.
📸 📸 Photography
The Anatomical Theater with its dome, the intricate details of the Augsburg Art Cabinet, and the exterior of the historic building are popular photo opportunities.
Professional photography or commercial shoots usually require special permission. For personal photos, non-flash is generally acceptable, but always confirm with staff.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The Augsburg Art Cabinet with its myriad of small objects can feel like a treasure hunt, encouraging close observation. Consider utilizing the audio guides, which are available in English and can make the exhibits more engaging for children.
📚 History Buffs & Academics
Explore exhibits detailing the university's founding, its notable scholars, and its role in shaping intellectual history. The Anatomical Theater offers a fascinating look into the evolution of medical studies, while the Augsburg Art Cabinet and Egyptian artifacts provide windows into different cultures and historical periods.
+3 The presence of Anders Celsius's original thermometer is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of science. The museum's well-curated displays and informative audio guides ensure a rich and educational experience. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Gustavianum Building
Its iconic dome is a recognizable landmark in Uppsala. The building has undergone extensive renovations, most recently completed in 2024, ensuring its preservation for future generations while enhancing the visitor experience. Originally serving as the university's main building, it housed lecture halls and the university library. Today, it stands as a testament to the university's long and rich academic heritage, offering visitors a tangible connection to centuries of learning and discovery. The architecture itself tells a story of Swedish Renaissance and Baroque influences.
+1Its central location, right across from the magnificent Uppsala Cathedral, makes it an integral part of the city's historical core. A visit here is a journey through both architectural history and the evolution of academic thought in Sweden.
Exploring the Anatomical Theater
+1 Built in the 1660s, it was a pioneering space for medical education, where students could observe dissections firsthand. The theater embodies a time when science and performance were intertwined, offering a unique and somewhat macabre glimpse into the past. Imagine the lectures and demonstrations that took place here, shaping the understanding of human anatomy.
The design itself is ingenious, allowing for clear views from multiple levels. Visiting the Anatomical Theater is often highlighted by visitors as a profound experience, connecting them to the history of medicine in a very visceral way. It’s a stark reminder of how far medical science has come, and a testament to the university's early commitment to empirical study.
Treasures from Around the World
The museum also houses important archaeological finds, including a recently repatriated ancient Egyptian child sarcophagus. This artifact, with its over 3,000-year history, offers a poignant connection to ancient Egyptian culture and burial practices.
The museum's commitment to ethical repatriation underscores its role in preserving and presenting global heritage responsibly.Furthermore, Gustavianum is home to scientific instruments of historical importance, such as the original thermometer of Anders Celsius, the Swedish astronomer who developed the Celsius temperature scale.
These items not only represent scientific breakthroughs but also the intellectual legacy of Uppsala University. 
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