On May 22nd and June 9th SIRAP has two very exciting upcoming events about Swedish history that you wouldn't want to miss:

Swedish History with focus on the Vikings on May 22

followed by a

Guided day trip to the Viking city of Birka on June 9

“A civilization based on pillaging, plundering and narcotic mushrooms gave us the Nobel Prize, IKEA, Ericsson and Absolut.” - Perhaps a somewhat modern interpretation of the Viking Age?

Who were the Vikings really? Where did they live? Where and how did they travel? What was every day life like as a Viking?

The Vikings were active between 850-1100 and the island of Birka, located on Lake Mälaren is known as the first Viking settlement in this region. Known as vicious warriors, pillaging and plundering their way forth they travelled east and south in different types of vessels discovering unknown lands. Leaving the Vikings behind to explore what happened next: What and who came after the Viking Age?

Natalie O Sullivan will tell us about these all and more on May 22 so that you are prepared for the cruise to Birka on June 9th.  Our guide will take us on a day trip to the Viking city of Birka and leafy Björkö Island. Birka has been one of UNESCO's World Heritage Sites since 1993.  This trip will almost be like travelling 1000 years back in time. You won't want to miss this memorable summer day trip!

The price includes round-trip, entrance to the museum and a guided tour of the ancient field but not the lunch. The boat departs 9:30 from Stockholm (Stadshusbron - just next to the City Hall), arrives at Birka 11:30, heads back towards the city 14:30 and will be at Stadshusbron 16:30. 

Tickets will be available for sale at the seminar on May 22. So please bring cash for the ticket if you are planning to join us at BIRKA.

Swedish history

Place: Studentpalatset. Click here for more information in English.

Address: Nortullsgatan 2, 11489 Stockholm Click here for a map.

Date: Tuesday 22 May 2012.

Time: 19.00

Price: 50 kr to be paid at the door upon arrival or 30 kr if you sign up BEFORE the deadline!

Sign up deadline: 12.00 (12 noon) on Monday 21st May.

To sign up e-mail to   

Birka cruise

Address (departure): Stadshusbron. Click here for a map.

Date: Saturday 9 June 2012.

Time: 9.30

Price: 150 kr to be paid at the day of the seminar (22 May)

IMPORTANT! When you write to  please: 
1. Check that the word "Swedish_History" is in the subject line. 
2. Tell us tell us the names (maximum 2) of the people coming and... 
Thanks for your help and see you soon!