STATE SYMBOLS The Swedish flag - a yellow cross on a blue background - as well as in other Scandinavian countries, is closely associated with Christian symbols - the cross. According to Sweden's oldest law on flags on ships, issued in 1663, all ships except merchant ships must fly a triangular flag. Merchant ships must fly a square flag. Nowadays the triangular pennant is used only on ships of the royal family and on warships.
STATE SYMBOLS The coat of arms of the Kingdom of Sweden still preserves the memory of the former power of the Swedish monarchy: these three crowns at one time symbolized the three kingdoms that were part of Sweden: Götaland, Svealand and Vendel. Now this symbol can be seen on the royal palace, as well as on the uniforms of the Swedish national team different types sports (hockey, football, handball, etc.).
Kingdom of Sweden brief information Founded - around 900 Official language - Swedish Capital - Stockholm Form of government - hereditary constitutional monarchy, parliamentary democracy Head of state - King Carl XVI Gustaf Legislative body - unicameral parliament (Riksdag, 349 seats), elected by secret free vote for four years. Head of Government - Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt Territory km² (5th largest country in Europe, 54th in the world) forests: 53%, mountains: 17%, cultivated lands: 8% rivers and lakes: 9% Population per. Currency – Swedish krona
Administrative division of Sweden The country is administratively divided into 21 districts (counties). In each county there are also local government bodies, landstings, which are elected local population. Each fief, in turn, is divided into communes (kommun), the total number of which is 290 (2008). There is also a historical division of Sweden into provinces and regions.
Sweden is a state in Northern Europe, located in the eastern and southern part of the Scandinavian Peninsula. By area (km²), Sweden ranks third among Western European countries and fifth among countries in all of Europe. Geographical location Sweden In the west, Sweden borders with Norway (border length 1619 km), in the northeast with Finland (614 km), and from the east and south it is washed by waters Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Bothnia. The total length of the borders is 2,333 km. In the south, the straits Öresund, Kattegat and Skagerrak separate Sweden from Denmark. Sweden consists of two large islands in the Baltic Gotland and Öland.
Despite its location in northern latitudes, Sweden has a temperate climate, mainly due to the Gulf Stream. However, the meridional elongation (the country extends from 69 degrees N to 55 degrees N) and the proximity of the Atlantic influence the climatic conditions in the country. The northern, western and eastern regions of Sweden are protected from the Atlantic winds by the Scandinavian mountains, so the winters here are colder and the summers are short. It should also be noted that a small part in the north of the country is within the northern Arctic Circle Therefore, the subarctic type of climate dominates here.
Sweden is characterized by hilly moraine landscapes, podzolic soils, which are characterized by strong rockiness, low thickness, a predominance of sandy and gravelly varieties, high acidity, and coniferous forests. Arable land occupies 8%. Most of the country is covered with forests (53%), according to this indicator Sweden ranks first in Europe. Taiga forests predominate on podzolic soils, forming large tracts north of 60° N. w. and consisting mainly of pine and spruce, with an admixture of birch, aspen and other hardwoods. To the south, mixed coniferous broadleaf forests on soddy-podzolic soils, and on the Skåne Peninsula, broad-leaved forests of oak and beech on brown forest soils. In the north, vast areas are occupied by the tundra zone of Swedish Lapland. The coastline is heavily indented and abounds with skerries and island groups. Length coastline km.
The relief in the north and west is dominated by plateaus and mountains; the Scandinavian mountains stretch along the border with Norway, where the most high mountain Kebnekaise has a height of m. Between the Scandinavian Mountains and the Gulf of Bothnia on the Baltic Sea lie the Norland Plateau, the Central Swedish Lowland and the Småland Highlands. The southern peninsula of Skåne is flat. Relief
State of the economy About 90% of products are produced by private companies, such as Ericsson AB, Alfa Laval Group, IKEA, of which about half are mechanical engineering. IN agriculture produces only 2% of GDP Adhering to a policy of non-involvement in wars and neutrality throughout the 20th century, Sweden has achieved a high standard of living in a capitalist economic system based on the use of high technology and comprehensive social security. The country has modern infrastructure, excellent internal and external communications and a highly skilled workforce. The economy is focused primarily on foreign trade
The government's commitment to strict fiscal discipline led to a budget surplus in 2001, which was halved in 2002 due to the global economic downturn, falling revenues and increasing spending. Central Bank Sweden (Riksbank) strives to maintain a stable exchange rate and keep inflation at 2%. GDP growth in 2005 was 2.7% (7.7%). Since 2001, unemployment has been growing in the country, which in March 2005 amounted, according to official data, to 5.5% IMPORTANT EXPORT PRODUCTS: paper, electrical goods and computers, cars, machine tools, chemical and pharmaceutical industry, iron and steel, food IMPORTANT IMPORT PRODUCTS: oil, cars, machine tools, electrical goods and computers, food, clothing, shoes.
January 1st. New Year. January 13. St. Ignatius Day is the end of the Christmas holidays. January 15 – St. Knut's Day April 30. Birthday of King Carl XVI Gustaf. April 30 – Walpurgis Night June 6. Flag (Independence) Day and Constitution Day. The national holiday Swedish Flag Day commemorates two historical events- the election of King Gustav I of Sweden on June 6, 1523 and the adoption of the first constitution on June 6, 1523. Midsommar - holiday summer solstice November 1-2. All Saints' Day December 13 – Saint Lucia's Day December 25. Christmas. Saint Lucia's Day
Traditional Swedish cuisine is quite fatty, based on meat and fish. Due to long winters, it is important to use mainly those products that can withstand long-term winter storage, which explains the lack of fresh vegetables in many traditional recipes. In the old days, turnips were used, but later they were mainly replaced by potatoes, which appeared in the 18th century. Lingonberry jam is often used for vitamins and to flavor rather heavy foods. Vegetarianism has historically been practically non-existent.
Vasa is the only 17th century ship in the world that has survived to this day. With more than 95 percent of the original structural elements preserved, as well as hundreds of carved sculptures, Vasa is unique artistic value and one of the most prominent attractions on a global scale.
Botanical Garden in Gothenburg Gothenburg Botanical Garden is the largest and, according to many, leading botanical garden in Northern Europe. The total area of the garden is 430 acres (almost 110 hectares), including a nature reserve, and was created for the integrated purposes of research, application and leisure, with a more concentrated focus on horticulture. Almost half a million visitors come here every year. Visitor favorites include the herb garden, vegetable garden and, of course, lush evergreen plantings. Completed by: Student of grade 11-B of KSU "OSSh 24" Meshtybaev Vyacheslav
The countries of the Scandinavian Peninsula are not much different from their closest neighbors. The desire for independence and independence is inherent in them to the same extent as in other European states. The coat of arms of Sweden, which is one of the main symbols, emphasizes loyalty to traditions and aspirations for the future.
There is also a difference from its neighbors - in Sweden there is a distinction between the Large State Emblem and the Small State Emblem. The first, of course, consists of several parts; at the same time it is the main symbol of the head of state. The second is, in fact, the main emblem of the Swedish state.
Great coat of arms of Sweden
The construction of the Swedish coat of arms is regulated by a special law, which spells out in detail what parts it consists of, what colors are used, what symbols and signs must be present:
- azure shield;
- a golden cross dividing the shield field into four parts;
- in the center is the coat of arms of the royal house.
In addition, each of the fields of the shield has its own symbols, for example, in the first and third parts of it there are three golden crowns (in a triangle). In the second and fourth parts, silver is added to the azure, making a total of six oblique stripes. Against their background is a golden lion with a crown and scarlet weapons.
The field of the coat of arms of the royal house is also divided into several parts. On the left side is the coat of arms of the famous house of Vasa, which is a golden sheaf against a background of oblique stripes of azure, silver and scarlet. On the right side of the shield there are symbols of the Bernadotte house, below, in the azure field, there is a bridge with three arches and two crenellated towers, and above, above the bridge there is an image of an eagle looking to the left. Above the bird is the constellation Ursa Major (seven golden stars).
But that’s not all; the Swedish coat of arms is crowned with an image of a crown. Golden lions, symbols of royal power, support the shield on both sides. The beautiful background that completes the composition is a royal purple robe, trimmed with ermine fur, gold fringe, tassels and cords.
Small Swedish coat of arms
It is simple, but beautiful and deeply symbolic. As a Small state emblem Sweden uses a royal shield of a noble azure color and three golden crowns - one below, two above.
In order to use the Small Swedish Coat of Arms, government officials must obtain permission. The large coat of arms can be used by the head of state, as well as in some cases by the government, parliament, and diplomatic missions of Sweden abroad.
Included in the list of symbols of modern Sweden, Stieg Larsson's detective work "Millennium" (2005-2007) clearly demonstrates that Swedish literature has come a long way since the days of Astrid Lindgren's fairy tale about the girl Pippi with perky pigtails, and the Swedish film adaptation of the first book in the trilogy, called "The Girl" with the Dragon Tattoo" was shown around the world.
Alicia Vikander
The Swedish dancer and film actress starred in the film “Purity.” Since then, Vikander has landed roles in such large-scale films as “A Royal Affair” and “Anna Karenina.” Now she has appeared in the film, whose premiere took place in October of this year, “The Fifth Estate,” which tells the story of Julian Assange. Film critics saw the potential of the famous Frenchwoman Marion Cotillard in the Swedish actress.
Spotify
The Swedes are undoubtedly innovators. However, not everyone knows how innovative they can be. Many people do not suspect that the famous Skype program is Swedish, not to mention the Swedish music service Spotify, which is already used by 10 million people around the world.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic
Many people wonder why people still remember Bjorn Borg, the Swedish professional tennis player, given that the only brand left in circulation is the underwear brand he created in partnership with John McEnroe. The era of a new sports star has arrived, namely the “God of Goals” Zlatan Ibrahimovic. The incomparably ambitious striker from Malmo Zlatan appears on many advertising posters multicultural Sweden and is famous for his behavior so bad that it's surprising he has fans. But, one way or another, the nation loves him, even if this feeling is not shared by his rivals.
Computer game Minecraft
The first release of the experimental version of the game, developed by Swedish programmer Markus Persson, took place in 2009. After its official release in November 2011, Minecraft sold more than one million copies within a month. Since then, the game has won numerous awards, with sales of 33 million copies worldwide. One school in Stockholm has even introduced compulsory Minecraft lessons.
Marcus Samuelson
The 43-year-old Swede, originally from Ethiopia, became the youngest chef ever to receive three stars from the New York Times. Now he is opening a series of eateries in Clarion hotels in Sweden and Norway.
Singer Laleh
Now it is very difficult to predict whether anyone will be able to repeat the dizzying success of the Swedish four ABBA, but the singer Lale, born in Iran, is expected to high hopes. The 31-year-old singer of the single “Some Die Young” writes her own songs, of which, according to her, only 1% are love lyrics.
TV show "The Bridge"
There are some great TV shows on Swedish television, but The Bridge is a favorite. Better known as Bron in Swedish and Bwöoøggddn in Danish, “The Bridge” has already become famous on international level. Detectives from Malmö and Copenhagen reluctantly join forces to solve cases of brutal murders, and two surprisingly different languages. Fascinating, dark, funny and exciting.
PewDiePie
You are very mistaken if you think that Justin Bieber or Ellen DeGeneres are the most popular personalities on YouTube. The Swedish gamer and video blogger who posts his videos on YouTube and calls himself PewDiePie has the most subscribers. The channel of Felix Arvid Ulf Kjellberg was recognized in August by the Guinness Book of Records as the most popular in terms of audience.
Malmo
Everyone knows the capital of Sweden, Stockholm, very well. Many have heard of Gothenburg, but it is Malmö that deserves everyone's attention. As Sweden's gateway to Europe, the city has more colors than the Eurovision Song Contest, which Malmö hosted this year. While the immigrant-rich capital faces its own difficulties, Malmö has the best climate in the country and many interesting places to visit.
Sweden is distinguished by its low population density (10 million people live here - less than in Moscow), a long sea coast, dense forests and countless lakes. This is one of the northernmost countries in the world. In area it is comparable to Spain, Thailand or the American state of California. Sweden's borders have not changed since 1905, and the country has not been involved in wars since 1814 - which makes Sweden one of the most peace-loving countries on the globe.
Contrasts of day and night
Riches of wildlife
The diversity of Sweden's landscapes is matched by the abundance of its fauna: from wolves and brown bears in the north to roe deer and wild boars in the south. Biological diversity is the result of the richness of the plant and aquatic world.
The country, large by European standards, stretches from north to south for 1,572 km. According to the climate zone, coniferous forests, in particular pine and spruce, predominate in Sweden. The further south you go, the more often they are adjacent to deciduous groves: birch and aspen. The very south of Sweden is gentle, picturesque fields and hills, thinned out by copses and surrounded by long sandy beaches. Thanks to the limestone-rich soil combined with a mild climate, the islands of Gotland, Öland and parts of the Scandinavian Mountains are characterized by special flora, including a variety of orchid species.
Facts and figures
Capital: Stockholm
Population: 10 million
Total area: 528,447 sq. km, third largest country in Western Europe, after France and Spain
Lifespan: Men – 81 years old, women – 84 years old
Population born outside the country: 19,1%
Religion: The Church of Sweden is Evangelical Lutheran. Numerous other faiths and religions are also represented in the country.
Language: Swedish
Form of government: Constitutional monarchy, parliamentary democracy
Parliament: Riksdag, unicameral, 349 deputies
Education: 9 years of compulsory schooling, most students study for 12 years (including “grammar school”). About a third continue their education at universities and colleges.
Working hours: Standard working week– 40 hours, minimum paid vacation – 5 weeks.
Dialing code: +46
Internet domain:.se
Time zone: GMT +1
Currency: 1 crown (SEK) = 100 ore
GDP per capita (PPP): USD 56,935
GNI per capita: USD 50,840
Population largest cities(including suburbs):
Stockholm: 2,344,124
Gothenburg: 1,030,000
Malmö: 730,529
Main export products: Machinery and transport equipment, chemicals and plastic products, electronics and telecommunications equipment, energy products, industrial equipment, road vehicles, minerals, food
National parks
In 1909, Sweden became the first European state, who established national parks. The beginning was made in the mountain ranges of Norrland, a region in the north of the country. This helped save one of the last corners of pristine nature in Europe from destruction. Then, throughout Sweden, vast areas were declared nature reserves and protected cultural heritage areas.
Rule of universal access to natural areas ( allemänsrätten) states that everyone has the right to walk through forests and meadows, pick berries and mushrooms - without separate permission from landowners. But this right also comes with obvious responsibilities: to respect private property and take care of nature.
Geography of Sweden
Length from north to south: 1,574 km
Length from west to east: 499 km
Urbanized and industrial areas: 3%
Agricultural land: 8%
Forests: 53% Swamps: 9%
Fields: 7% Mountains: 12%
Lakes and rivers: 9%
Highest mountain: Kebnekaise (2,103 m)
Largest lake: Vänern (5,650 sq. km)
National symbols of Sweden
The official Swedish heraldry is the yellow and blue flag, the national symbol “Three Crowns”, the national anthem, as well as the coat of arms in two versions: large and small. Ancient images The blue flag with a yellow cross that has survived to this day dates back to the 16th century. The symbol of the yellow cross itself has been applied to banners and standards in the Swedish army since time immemorial. It is based on the outlines of the ancient coat of arms of the kingdom with a blue background, divided into four parts by a golden cross. The sign of the "three crowns" was used as state emblem Sweden, at least since 1336, but long before that it was known to Europeans as a symbol of the “Three Wise Kings”.
Since 1916, Swedish Flag Day has appeared on the Swedish calendar - June 6th. In 1983, it was renamed Swedish National Day, and in 2004 it was declared a public holiday and a day off. The date was chosen for two reasons: on June 6, 1523, the first Swedish king, Gustav Vasa, ascended the throne, and on the same day in 1809, the country adopted a new Constitution that granted citizens civil liberties and rights.
Swedish national anthem
The text “Du Gamla, Du Fria” (“You are ancient, you are free”) was composed by the ballad author, folklorist Richard Dubeck (1811-1877), and his musical basis served folk melody mid-19th century from the province of Västmanland in central Sweden. On turn of XIX-XX centuries, this ballad became so popular that it was declared the national anthem of Sweden.