Grimeton Radio Station
Hallands län
Located near Varberg in Hallands län, Sweden, Grimeton Radio Station is an exceptional industrial heritage site preserving a fully functional electromagnetic ultra-longwave telegraph transmitter from the early 1920s. Constructed between 1922 and 1924, it was designed by Swedish-born engineer Ernst Alexanderson and architect Carl Åkerblad. The station was pivotal as the first direct radio communication link between Sweden and the USA, officially inaugurated by King Gustaf V in 1925. Its six 127-meter tall antenna towers, visible from the E6/E20 motorway, form a unique multipole antenna system designed to emit radio waves over the Atlantic. The transmitter, known by the call sign SAQ, uses a rare Alexanderson alternator generator to produce a 17.2 kHz signal with a wavelength of approximately 17 km, allowing communication with submarines and overcoming wartime cable disruptions. Today, owned by the World Heritage Foundation Grimeton, the station offers visitors immersive experiences including guided tours, live transmitter demonstrations, and exhibitions on the history and technology of wireless communication. Surrounded by scenic landscapes, it remains a symbol of early 20th-century innovation and global connectivity.
ヒント: Visit during the main open season from mid-February to October, with extended hours in summer. Book tickets in advance online to secure participation in guided tours and live transmitter demonstrations. Self-check-in options are available outside regular hours. Take advantage of family-friendly activities during Easter and school holidays. Guided tours provide deeper insights into the technology and history, enhancing the visitor experience.
興味深い事実
- •Grimeton Radio Station is the only remaining operational Alexanderson alternator transmitter in the world.
- •The station’s six 127-meter tall antenna towers are arranged in a straight line spanning 2.2 kilometers.
- •The Alexanderson alternator produces a 17.2 kHz signal with a wavelength of about 17 kilometers, enabling communication over vast distances and underwater.
- •During World War II, Grimeton was vital for transatlantic communication when undersea cables were cut.
- •The call sign SAQ is still used today during special transmissions to demonstrate the station's unique technology.
歴史
The Grimeton Radio Station was commissioned by the Swedish parliament in 1921 to establish a wireless telegraph link with the United States.
Construction began in 1922 and was completed in 1924.
The station was officially inaugurated in 1925 by King Gustaf V.
Originally equipped with two Alexanderson alternators, only one remains operational today after the other was dismantled in 1960 to make way for shortwave transmitters.
During World War II, the station played a critical role maintaining communication with the USA when cable traffic was interrupted.
It later served the Swedish Navy for submarine communications due to its unique ultra-longwave capabilities.
Recognized for its historical and technological significance, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2004.
場所ガイド
Transmitter Hall1924
The core of the station housing the operational Alexanderson alternator generator, an electromechanical device producing ultra-longwave signals. Visitors can witness live demonstrations of the transmitter in action.
Antenna Towers1924
Six towering 127-meter vertical antenna masts arranged in a row, connected by a complex network of wires forming a multipole antenna system designed for ultra-longwave transmission over the Atlantic Ocean.
Exhibition Hall
Interactive exhibits explaining the development of radio technology, the history of wireless communication, and the people behind Grimeton's creation. Includes displays suitable for all ages, including children.
Surrounding Landscape Walk
A scenic walking path around the antenna field offering views of the towering masts and the natural environment, highlighting the integration of technology and nature at the heritage site.
連絡先
電話: 0340-67 41 90
