Gustavianum

Gustavianum is a 17th-century university building in central Uppsala that now houses a museum associated with Uppsala University. It is one of the oldest surviving university buildings in Sweden and retains historical interiors used for teaching and display.

The building’s highlights include a preserved anatomical theatre in its upper cupola and museum galleries with archaeological finds, historical scientific instruments and displays about the university’s history. Exhibits focus on academic life and early modern science rather than large archaeological collections.

Originally constructed in the 17th century and later adapted for university use, the building has been associated with Uppsala University since its early history and was given the name Gustavianum in reference to the Gustavian era. Over time it shifted from teaching spaces to museum and exhibition use.

The site sits in central Uppsala, immediately west of the cathedral and within easy walking distance of the university precinct and the Fyris River.

• Location: Located within Uppsala city centre, a short walk from Uppsala Cathedral and the university main campus.
• Visitor tip: The anatomical theatre and the museum collections are the main attractions; check opening times before visiting as they follow museum schedules.

What to See #

• Anatomical Theatre: A 17th-century wooden-roofed anatomical theatre built inside the cupola, historically used for public dissections and now presented as a museum exhibit.
• Gustavianum Museum galleries: Museum galleries displaying university history, archaeological finds and historical scientific instruments associated with Uppsala University.