Skellefteå

Skellefteå

General Information
Name	Skellefteå
Native Name
Other Names
Settlement Type	City
Transliteration
Language 1
Type 1
Info 1
Location
Coordinates
Map	250px
Population
Total
Density	per km²
Area
Total	km²
Land	km²
Water	km²
Government
Type
Leader
Time Zone
Standard	UTC+1
DST	UTC+2

Skellefteå is a city located in Västerbotten County, in the northern part of Sweden. It serves as the seat of Skellefteå Municipality and is a significant urban center in the region. The city is known for its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and its role as a hub for the mining and technology industries.

History

Skellefteå was officially founded in 1845, although the area has been inhabited for thousands of years. The city developed rapidly during the 19th century, primarily due to the discovery of gold in the nearby Boliden area. This led to a mining boom that significantly contributed to the city's growth and economic development.

Geography

Skellefteå is situated along the Skellefte River, which flows into the Gulf of Bothnia. The city is surrounded by a picturesque landscape of forests and rivers, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and skiing.

Economy

The economy of Skellefteå is diverse, with significant contributions from the mining, forestry, and technology sectors. The city is home to several major companies, including Boliden AB, a leading mining and smelting company. In recent years, Skellefteå has also become a center for renewable energy and technology innovation, with initiatives focused on sustainable development and green technology.

Culture

Skellefteå boasts a rich cultural heritage, with numerous museums, theaters, and art galleries. The city hosts several annual festivals, including the Skellefteå Winter Festival and the Trästock Festival, which attract visitors from across Sweden and beyond. The local dialect, known as "Skelleftemål," is a distinctive feature of the region's cultural identity.

Education

Skellefteå is home to several educational institutions, including campuses of Umeå University and Luleå University of Technology. These institutions offer a range of programs in fields such as engineering, business, and the arts, contributing to the city's reputation as a center for higher education and research.

Transportation

The city is well-connected by road, rail, and air. Skellefteå Airport provides regular flights to major cities in Sweden, while the E4 European route runs through the city, facilitating easy access to other parts of the country.

Also see

• Västerbotten County
• Boliden
• Umeå
• Luleå
• Gulf of Bothnia