In few other places is the past so apparent as in Gotland. Here there are 92 medieval churches and a large number of important archaeological sites. Nowhere else in Sweden have so many Viking and medieval treasures been uncovered. Culture and an interest in history both thrive in Gotland, especially in the local history societies and study circles, where the special island dialect and traditions are kept very much alive. Important contributions to Gotland's cultural life have also been made by the numerous film-makers, artists, writers, musicians, craftsmen and cultural personalities who have moved to Gotland.

In August each year, history is revived during Middle Ages Week, when activities and events of all kinds take us right back to medieval times. There's jousting and banqueting and haggling in the markets, and the narrow lanes and alleys seethe with merchants, jesters, fire-eaters and knights, all clad in contemporary garb.

Gotland has many interesting museums. Visby's Gotlands Fornsal, for example, houses rich collections of artefacts spanning most of the 8,000 years of Gotland's history. The Natural History Museum and the Gotland Museum of Fine Arts are also in Visby.

For culture, Gotland is unparalleled. There's something for everyone every day of the year.

Gotland is the island of music. Few places can boast such widespread interest in the musical tradition. Practically every parish on the island has its own choir, dance troupe or band of folk musicians.

During the summer, cultural events come thick and fast. The Gotland Chamber Music Festival, the Stångaspelen Viking Olympics and exhibitions of paintings and sculptures regularly attract large crowds. Gotland is also host to many international events, including the Hanseatic Days and the Island Games.

Bryggeriteatern, Gotland's county theatre, is housed in an old church in central Visby where plays are staged for both adults and children. Plays are, however, put on all round the island, both by professional actors and by enthusiastic amateurs. Many parishes stage their own highly acclaimed revues and variety shows.

The Gotland Museum of Fine Arts, which opened its doors in 1989, has meant much for the artistic life of the island. The Museum has succeeded in attracting exhibitors of top international class, sometimes securing the exclusive exhibition rights for all of Sweden.