Photos by Eddie Westergren

  • Stenpiren by night

    Stenpiren Gothenburg by night

    Stenpiren by night

    I captures this scene in Gothenburg 2025-12-14. It is taken from the bridge over the river along Västra Hamngatan, looking toward Stenpiren. The composition beautifully balances urban architecture and the tranquil flow of water, offering a glimpse into the city’s dynamic yet calm atmosphere. The fading light of the evening casts a soft glow across the scene, reflecting subtly on the river’s surface and enhancing the overall mood with a sense of peacefulness.

    In the background, 

    Karlatornet rises majestically against the twilight sky, its modern silhouette contrasting with the historic and functional structures along the waterfront. The tower’s glass and steel façade glimmers faintly, capturing the last hints of daylight and hinting at the bustling life that continues within. The juxtaposition of the tall, modern Karlatornet and the more traditional buildings around Stenpiren creates a compelling dialogue between old and new architecture, symbolizing Gothenburg’s evolution while maintaining its cultural heritage.

    The bridge itself 

    provides a natural frame for the shot, its railings leading the viewer’s eyes toward the focal points of the river and Karlatornet. Subtle details along Västra Hamngatan, such as streetlights beginning to illuminate and reflections in puddles or wet surfaces, add layers of texture and depth. The river serves as both a physical and visual guide through the image, its gentle ripples mirroring the city lights and contributing to the photograph’s overall sense of calm.

    Despite the urban setting, the evening light softens the scene, creating a moment of quiet introspection amid the city’s energy. The photograph not only documents a specific location but also conveys the atmosphere of Gothenburg at dusk—a blend of modernity and tradition, movement and stillness, light and shadow. It invites viewers to pause and reflect on the unique character of this waterfront area, highlighting the interplay between the city’s architectural landmarks, its waterways, and the subtle, fleeting beauty of an evening in the city.

    In essence, 

    this image serves as a poetic visual record of Gothenburg, capturing both its structural grandeur and its gentle, contemplative side as night approaches.

  • Gothenburg by night

    Gothenburg city

    Brunnsparken is 

    one of the most iconic public spaces in central Gothenburg, Sweden, serving as a major hub for both locals and visitors. Located at the heart of the city, it functions primarily as a transport and meeting point, connecting several of the city’s tram and bus lines. Its central position makes it an essential landmark for navigating Gothenburg, as many trams pass through the square, linking different districts and suburbs.

    The square 

    has a long history and has been an important part of the city for centuries. Its name, which translates to “The Well Park,” reflects its origins as a site with natural springs. Over time, Brunnsparken evolved from a functional gathering point into a lively urban space where people meet, socialize, and enjoy the surrounding cityscape. The area is surrounded by a mix of historic and modern buildings, including shops, cafes, and offices, which gives it a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere.

    In addition to its role as a transport hub, Brunnsparken is also a popular social space. Street performers, small markets, and cultural events often take place here, creating a lively urban environment. Statues and public art in the square add to its charm and historical significance. Notably, the statue of Poseidon, although technically in the nearby Götaplatsen, contributes to the general cultural feeling of the area, symbolizing Gothenburg’s connection to the sea and maritime heritage.

    Brunnsparken is 

    also a place of observation, offering visitors a view of the city’s architectural diversity, from classical 19th-century facades to modern glass-fronted buildings. The square’s layout encourages pedestrian activity and interaction, making it a natural meeting point for both planned and spontaneous gatherings. Its accessibility and centrality have made it not only a practical location for transport but also a symbolic heart of Gothenburg, representing the city’s blend of tradition, culture, and urban life.

    In short, 

    Brunnsparken is more than just a square; it is a central node of daily life in Gothenburg, where transportation, culture, and social interaction converge in a vibrant urban setting.

  • Under Älvsborgsbron

    Älvsborgsbron from the underside.
    Älvsborgsbron underside.

    With my camera

    Älvsborgsbron is all around me in front. I look up toward the sweeping steel span of Älvsborgsbron. The late afternoon light casts shadow across the water, and the underside of the bridge reveals a geometry that most passersby never truly notice. From this vantage point, I’m photographing not just a landmark but a piece of engineering poetry — the ribbed steel beams stretching toward Hisingen like a metallic ribcage arching over the Göta älv.

    Built between 1963 and 1966, Älvsborgsbron connects the mainland with Hisingen, one of Sweden’s largest islands. It’s an indispensable artery for the city’s traffic. But here, standing beneath it, the focus shifts away from cars and buses to the monumental stillness of its structure. Its green-painted steel has weathered decades of wind, rain, and salt air, yet it retains a quiet dignity. The sunlight filters through gaps between beams, creating alternating stripes of light and shadow that ripple across the underside.

    From my spot, 

    Älvsborgsbron and its massive concrete pylons rise from both side’s of the water with a kind of unshakable confidence. I frame them carefully in my viewfinder, trying to capture both the scale and the grace of their form. The bridge deck above is far from silent — muffled traffic hums overhead — yet here at the water’s edge, that noise becomes a background rhythm to the lapping of the river against the quay.

    The view toward Hisingen is framed perfectly by the converging lines of the bridge. The far shore is bathed in a softer light, with cranes, oil silos, and the occasional ship hinting at Gothenburg’s industrial heart. In my photograph, I want to juxtapose that urban grit with the almost sculptural elegance of the bridge’s underbelly.

     

    Photographing Älvsborgsbron

     from this side means embracing its dual identity — functional infrastructure and aesthetic statement. It is both a connector and a presence in its own right. Through my lens, I hope to preserve the way the structure seems to float and anchor at the same time, stretching across the river like a promise between two shores. This shot will be more than an image of a bridge; it will be a portrait of Gothenburg’s resilience and grace in steel and concrete.

  • Eriksberg crane foot

    Eriksberg crane foot
    Eriksberg crane foot

    Eriksberg crane foot

    The photograph of the big red crane foot in Eriksberg, Gothenburg, captures more than just a piece of industrial machinery. It preserves a fragment of history. The massive crane foot, belonging to the old shipyard crane, is a reminder of the city’s once-thriving shipbuilding era. Painted in a bold red, and orange. The structure immediately draws attention with its striking presence. Its scale is immense, dwarfing nearby surroundings and emphasizing the strength and stability required to support such a giant piece of engineering.

    In the composition of the photo, the crane foot dominates the frame, grounding the viewer in its monumental weight. The steel surfaces, with their bolts, joints, and weathered textures,.They speaks to decades of hard labor and exposure to the elements. At the same time, the vivid red paint offers a sense of renewal. Like this relic of the past has been preserved not only as a memory but as a proud landmark. Against the backdrop of the modernized buildings, the crane foot stands as both a contrast and a connection between old and new Gothenburg.

    The symbolism 

    of this image is powerful. For many residents, the Eriksberg crane is not just a machine but a cultural icon. It represents the hardworking spirit of the city, when thousands of shipyard workers contributed to building vessels that traveled across the world. The crane foot, captured up close, serves as a foundation for these memories, anchoring the legacy of an industrial age that has long since passed. Yet, instead of disappearing, it has been reimagined as a monument, blending heritage with the evolving identity of the city.

    From a photographic perspective, the shot emphasizes geometry and scale. The towering lines draw the eye upward, while the massive base roots the image in strength. Light and shadow across the red surfaces highlight texture, giving life to what might otherwise be perceived as cold machinery.

    Ultimately, 

    the photo is more than an architectural or industrial study. It is a portrait of a city’s resilience, pride, and transformation. The red crane foot at Eriksberg is both a literal support for the crane and a figurative support for Gothenburg’s story—firm, enduring, and unforgettable.

  • 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.

  • Thoughtfulness

    Resting man
    Resting man in park

    Thoughtfulness

    Resting on a bench in the park invites a tranquil immersion into nature’s embrace, a pause button in the bustling symphony of life. As I settle onto the weathered wooden slats, I feel a subtle harmony between my body and the surrounding environment. The bench, a silent witness to countless stories, cradles me in its sturdy arms, offering respite from the ceaseless rhythm of the world.

    Above me, the verdant canopy of trees weaves a tapestry of shifting light and shadow, dappling the ground with patterns of sun and shade. The gentle rustle of leaves provides a soothing soundtrack, a melody that accompanies my thoughts as they drift and wander.

    Around me, life buzzes with quiet activity. Birds flit and chirp in the branches, their songs weaving through the air like delicate threads. Squirrels dart among the undergrowth, their playful antics a reminder of nature’s boundless energy. Even the distant hum of traffic seems softened by the lush greenery, a mere echo of the outside world.

    Yet despite the lively backdrop, the bench cocooning me offers a sanctuary of stillness. Here, time flows at its own leisurely pace, unaffected by the demands of schedules or deadlines. I close my eyes and surrender to the moment, letting go of the burdens that weigh upon my shoulders.

    Beauty surrounding

    In this tranquil interlude, my senses awaken to the beauty that surrounds me. The scent of earth and foliage fills the air, mingling with the distant perfume of flowers in bloom. The warmth of the sun kisses my skin, a gentle reminder of the season’s embrace. I run my fingers along the rough grain of the bench, tracing the lines of its history etched into the wood.

    As I sit in quiet contemplation, I find solace in the simplicity of existence. Here, amidst the rustling leaves and twittering birds, I am reminded of life’s enduring resilience, its capacity to endure and flourish despite adversity. And though the world may spin on, the bench in the park remains a steadfast anchor, a timeless sanctuary where one can always find a moment of peace.

  • Harbour in Roquetas de mar

    Roquetas de mar harbour photo

     

  • 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.