Discover Väskinde

Väskinde Church brings together several layers of history: remains of an older apse church, a Futhark inscription discovered in 1953, and a reused picture stone are among the tangible historical traces. Brucebo adds nature and art to the picture. In the nature reserve, the coastal landscape and nature trail take centre stage; the story of the artists’ home leads to Carolina and William Blair Bruce. Nature experiences, architectural history and art can therefore be considered as distinct interests when planning your trip.

Nature in the Brucebo Nature Reserve

The Brucebo Nature Reserve includes bird-rich coastal meadows, wetlands with orchids, and a cliff edge riddled with caves. The landscape thus brings together open areas near the coast, wet habitats and a distinctive coastline. From the cliff ridge, you can see across large parts of the reserve, towards the coast to the north and out over the sea to the west. A nature trail about two kilometres long runs through the reserve. Its approximate length gives you a concrete reference point if you would like to include a nature walk in your travel plans. The view from the cliff ridge also offers a distinct perspective on the reserve and coast.

The story of the artists at Brucebo

Brucebo is also connected with a story of building and artistic work. Carolina Benedicks Bruce (1856–1935), from Stockholm, and her Canadian husband William Blair Bruce (1859–1906) began construction in 1900. The couple worked at Brucebo and created numerous paintings and sculptures, which can still be viewed today. The story of the house therefore includes both the couple’s joint start on construction and the works of art created there.

Brucebo Artists’ Home is a museum offering tours that can be booked year-round. If you plan to take a tour, check booking options before your trip.

Construction history and finds at Väskinde Church

Remains of an older apse church were discovered in the walls of Väskinde Church. It was probably built at the beginning of the 12th century. The dating is approximate and refers to the older building. The find is therefore of interest both as an architectural trace and for its probable date.

Another trace is the Futhark inscription G 258. It was discovered in 1953 in the plaster surface of the inclusorium at Väskinde Church. The dates tell different stories: the beginning of the 12th century is the probable construction date of the older apse church; 1953 marks the discovery of the inscription. One date concerns the building’s history, the other the history of the find.

A picture stone documented at Väskinde Church remains in situ and is used as a reused threshold. It has been preserved in its original location while also serving a structural function. Together, these features offer different ways to explore church history: an older building, an inscription and a picture stone put to a new use. If you are looking for a hotel for a trip to Väskinde, your interests in nature and culture can help you decide what you would like to focus on during your stay.

Discover more destinations: Lau, Burgsvik, Havdhem, Vamlingbo, Lummelunda, När, Hejdeby, Dalhem

For the broader travel overview: Gotland.