The country has the monarchy head as head of the state, yet the government has prime political authority along with his or her cabinet board. The royal family plays more of a representative role while elegant palaces are still maintained and used in current times.
Sweden is a country of vast history and culture. High quality concerts, musical theoretical productions, museums and dramatic performances are offered as entertainment throughout the year.
The climate of Sweden is not as cold as one might imagine for its closeness to the Arctic Circle, due to the warmer sea currents.
From the days of being the origin of conquering and strong Vikings, the land of Sweden has taken a neutral stance in both World Wars. Gender equality, human rights issues and personal freedom are celebrated and protected in Sweden. Swedes tend to be individualistic yet they enjoy comradeship, especially at special times of the year.
Although not a highly religious country, Lutheranism has been a major dominating religion. Although there are roots to paganism from pre-Christianity, pagan associated events such as celebrating the change of seasons are still acknowledged with festivities to our present day.
The culture of Sweden is highly adaptable to foreign influences, yet a distinctive individualistic trend pervades all Swedish creations. This is the country that gave us the world’s first ice hotel and Utter Inn (an underwater hotel). Major important people in history have originated from this land, such as Alfred Nobel.
This site is not connected to any goverment agency - here is the South African Swedish Embassy web site: http://www.dirco.gov.za/sweden/
Here is the Sweden Embassy in Petoria - http://www.swedenabroad.com/pretoria
Here is Sweden's Government website - http://www.government.se/
and
Here is Sweden's tourism website - http://www.visitsweden.com