Wij Gardens
Gävleborgs län
Wij Gardens, located in Ockelbo in Gästrikland, Sweden, is a celebrated garden complex established in 2000 on the grounds of the historic Wij estate. The gardens were designed to reflect and celebrate three key materials pivotal to the region's development: wood, iron, and plastic, linking the area's industrial heritage with natural beauty. The estate itself dates back to the 1600s and was historically associated with the Wij ironworks, founded in 1797, which played a significant role in regional industry until its closure in 1933. The gardens feature thoughtfully crafted areas including pergolas and screens made from wood and iron, symbolizing this heritage, alongside displays of local plastic boat craftsmanship, a nod to modern regional industry. Visitors can enjoy not only the diverse horticultural displays but also on-site restaurants, conference facilities, and lodging, making Wij Gardens a multifaceted destination. The estate buildings are under restoration by a Wallenberg-owned company, while the garden operations are managed by a foundation, ensuring the preservation and continuation of this unique cultural and natural landmark.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Wij Gardens is during the warmer months when the gardens are in full bloom and outdoor structures can be fully appreciated. It is advisable to check opening hours in advance and consider purchasing tickets beforehand, especially during peak tourist seasons. Visitors can benefit from available discounts for groups or certain categories such as seniors or students. Guided tours may be offered, providing deeper insights into the garden's design and historical context.
Faits intéressants
- •The name 'Wij' originates from Old Norse and historically referred to a sacred place or temple, indicating ancient cultural significance in the area.
- •Wij ironworks produced steel used by Gillette in Germany for manufacturing razor blades.
- •The Wij estate includes a well-preserved industrial heritage site with buildings from the 17th to 19th centuries, including the manor house built between 1839 and 1842.
- •The garden design incorporates materials symbolic of the region's traditional industries: wood, iron, and plastic.
- •The Dala-Ockelbo-Norrsundets railway, once connecting Wij ironworks to the region, was operational until the late 1960s.
Histoire
The Wij estate dates back to the 1600s, originally formed through land grants and inheritance from the village of Wij.
The Wij ironworks was established in 1797 adjacent to the estate, becoming an important manufactory with several expansions including the installation of steam-powered hammers and rolling mills in the 19th century.
The ironworks produced steel that was notably sold to companies like Gillette in Germany.
Ownership changed hands several times, with the ironworks ceasing operation in 1933.
The estate and its buildings were sold in 1996 to a company with local municipal and private ownership, which initiated the creation of Wij Gardens in 2000.
In 2022, the main manor was acquired by a Wallenberg-owned company that began restoration efforts, while the gardens continue to be run by a dedicated foundation.
Guide du lieu
Wij Manor House1839-1842
The main manor house, built between 1839 and 1842, replaced an older 17th-century building and serves as a centerpiece of the estate, showcasing period architecture and historical significance.
Industrial Heritage Buildings1797 and later
The estate includes preserved industrial buildings such as the former ironworks rolling mill, smithy, workers’ housing, and other ancillary structures reflecting the site's manufacturing past.
Wij Gardens Pergolas and Screens2000s
These garden structures are crafted from wood and iron, symbolizing the region's traditional materials and linking the garden's design to the local industrial heritage.
Plastic Boat ExhibitsContemporary
The gardens feature displays of small plastic boats, representing the modern industrial craft of the area and highlighting the evolution from traditional materials to contemporary production.