Photos by Eddie Westergren

  • Crane

    old shipyard crane
    old shipyard crane

    The old shipyard crane

    in Eriksberg, Gothenburg, Sweden, stands as an iconic symbol of the city’s rich maritime heritage. This monumental structure, known locally as “Kranen” or “Eriksberg crane,” is one of the few remaining vestiges of the once-thriving shipbuilding industry that dominated the region throughout the 20th century.

    The crane,

    erected in 1969, served the Eriksberg Shipyard, which was one of the largest and most significant shipyards in Sweden. During its operational years, the crane was integral to the construction of some of the world’s largest ships. It was handling enormous sections of hulls and other heavy components with precision and reliability. Standing 80 meters tall, it’s a imposing presence and testament to the industrial prowess and engineering achievements of its time.

    With the decline of shipbuilding in the late 20th century. Eriksberg Shipyard ceased operations in 1979. However, rather than dismantling the crane, it was preserved as a historic landmark. This decision was part of a broader urban redevelopment plan that transformed the former industrial area into a modern residential and commercial district. The crane now serves as a poignant reminder of Gothenburg’s industrial past and a striking contrast to the contemporary architecture that surrounds it.

    Today,

    Eriksberg crane is more than just a relic. It has been repurposed as a cultural and social focal point. It is often illuminated at night, casting a dramatic silhouette over the Göta älv river. The area around the crane has been developed into a vibrant waterfront, featuring parks, restaurants, and promenades, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

    In addition to its aesthetic and historical value, the crane also plays a role in community events and public art installations. It stands as a symbol of resilience and adaptation, reflecting Gothenburg’s ability to honor its history while embracing modernity. The old shipyard crane in Eriksberg is not merely an industrial artifact. It is also a beloved emblem of the city’s enduring spirit and its continuous evolution.

  • Bollard

    Bollard in Gothenburg by night photo
    Bollard in harbour

    Bollard and night

    Watching over the bollard in the harbour when the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of fiery orange and dusky purple. The harbour comes alive with a symphony of sights and sounds, a tableau of maritime magic unfolding before my eyes. The evening breeze carries with it the tang of salt and seaweed. It mingling with the aroma of freshly caught fish from the bustling docks.

    Seagulls wheel and cry overhead, their raucous calls echoing off the weathered wooden piers. Ships of all shapes and sizes bob gently in the water, their masts swaying in rhythm with the tide. From sleek yachts to rugged fishing vessels, each boat tells its own story of adventure and exploration, of voyages across stormy seas and tranquil waters alike.

    Along the waterfront promenade the bollard gives a nice fourground. The scent of sizzling seafood wafts from open-air cafes and restaurants, their tables spilling out onto the cobblestone streets. Lanterns flicker to life, casting a warm glow over the scene and beckoning passersby to linger a while longer in the embrace of the evening. 

    Music starts to sound

    As darkness descends, the harbour becomes a canvas for a spectacle of light and color. The twinkling lights of distant ships dance on the water’s surface, while the skyline sparkles with the glow of city buildings against the deepening twilight. Overhead, the first stars of the night emerge, pinpricks of silver against the velvet expanse of the sky.

    From the docks

     the sound of live music drifts on the breeze, drawing crowds of locals and tourists alike to dance and revel beneath the stars. The rhythm of guitars and drums mingles with the laughter of friends. The clink of glasses, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and celebration.

    As I stroll along the harbour’s edge, I feel a sense of wonder and gratitude for the beauty that surrounds me. In this fleeting moment, amidst the ebb and flow of the tides. I find solace and serenity in the timeless allure of the sea. And as the evening unfolds, I cherish each passing moment. Now I know that memories of this magical night will linger long after the stars have faded from the sky.

  • Social house

    Social house photo

    Sociala Huset

    inside Vallgraven district in Gothenburg was built in the years 1849-1855 as the general and Sahlgrenska Hospital in Gothenburg.

    The plot was then located on the outskirts of Gothenburg, on the cleared area at Vallgraven that was previously occupied by the fortifications. Sociala Huset is built on the mound that stood in the middle of the Carolus Dux bastion at Grönsakstorget.

  • Harbour in Roquetas de mar

    Harbour in Roquetas de mar
    Harbour in Roquetas de mar

  • New Hisingsbron

    The new Hisingsbron

  • Karlatornet

    Karlatornet by night
    Karlatornet by night

  • Fattighusån

    Fattighusån photo
    Fattighusån in Gothenburg city. It got the name Fattighusån in the vernacular because a property along the river was used as a poorhouse from 1726, and in 1767 the Willinska poorhouse opened on Stampgatan.

  • Eriksberg by night

    Eriksberg with Gothenburg city in the background

  • Red Snake

    Red snake bridge photo

    The Röde Orm road network

    in Gothenburg, Sweden, is a significant part of the city’s transportation infrastructure, known for its distinctive design and essential role in facilitating traffic flow. Named “Röde Orm” (Red Serpent) due to its serpentine shape and the red color of its structures, this network primarily encompasses the E6 motorway and the Gullbergsmotet interchange.

    Constructed to improve connectivity and reduce congestion in Gothenburg, the Röde Orm network consists of several elevated roads and bridges that weave through the city. It serves as a critical artery for both local and regional traffic, linking the city center with surrounding areas and facilitating easy access to the north and south of the region. The elevated sections of the road provide not only efficient traffic movement but also offer unique views of the cityscape.

    One of the key features of the Röde Orm network is its design, which prioritizes both functionality and aesthetics. The road curves and slopes gracefully, allowing vehicles to navigate smoothly while minimizing abrupt changes in elevation. This thoughtful design helps reduce traffic congestion, contributing to safer driving conditions.

    In addition to serving vehicular traffic,

    the Röde Orm road network also accommodates pedestrians and cyclists, promoting sustainable transportation options. This integration reflects Gothenburg’s commitment to creating a balanced and environmentally friendly urban environment.

    Furthermore, the Röde Orm network plays a vital role during major events and peak travel times, effectively managing the influx of vehicles. It is equipped with modern traffic management systems that monitor real-time conditions, allowing for quick responses to congestion and accidents.

    Overall,

    the Röde Orm road network exemplifies Gothenburg’s dedication to enhancing urban mobility while maintaining a visually appealing city landscape. Its strategic design and operational efficiency continue to support the city’s growth and development, making it an essential component of Gothenburg’s transportation framework.

  • Eriksberg

    Eriksberg by night
     

    Eriksberg evening view

    in the background you can see Älvsborgsbron and on the right side of the photo you have Eriksberg. Located on the north side of the river at the entrance to Gothenburg’s harbor. It was Gothenburg’s shipyard area where many large ships were built until the late 1970s.

    Yesterdays shipyard,

    Eriksberg has been transformed into mainly residential areas and to some extent an area with universities and business parks. Exciting evening lighting that changes color can be found at the old ramp/grind and on the stone wall towards the plateau. Eriksberg’s gantry crane is also illuminated. The lighting of the faucet and the mannequin next to it was awarded the 2010 Award of Excellence by the International Association of Lighting Designers