Helgesta is a settlement and former parish in the historical province of Södermanland in eastern Sweden. The settlement has grown around the parish church, which watches out over Lake Båven. The area is today a part of Flen Municipality.
A Short History of Helgesta
Helgesta Parish has its origins in the Middle Ages and its church was built during the 12th century. The parish existed up until the Swedish municipal reform of 1862 when it was split between the local government of Helgesta Municipality and the church congregation. The municipality was 1952 incorporated into Sparreholm Municipality, which in turn became a part of Flen Municipality in 1965. In regards to the church congregation, it is since 2010 a part of Flen, Helgesta-Hyltinge Congregation.
Things to Do and See
The church of the former parish was most likely the most prominent building here already in the Middle Ages and is so still today. This is the Swedish countryside, with farmlands, forests, and lakes scattered around the landscape. The small roads are perfect for cycling and even hiking is an option for the explorer who wishes to see more of what Södermanland has to offer. If you are really adventurous then there is also the option to explore by canoe on Lake Båven.
Helgesta Church
The parish church dates back to the 12th century. Even though its appearance has been altered several times since then it still has its origins in the Middle Ages. The church has an external wooden clock tower that was built in 1641. The church itself is a stone church that today is a part of the Flen, Helgesta-Hyltinga Congregation within the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Sweden.
Lake Båven
Lake Båven is the largest lake that is fully within the province of Södermanland. It has several beaches and there are plenty of ways to enjoy what the lake has to offer. Fishing is one possibility once you have the fishing permit. It is also popular to explore the lake and its shores by canoe.
How to Get to Helgesta
- Flights: Stockholm Skavsta Airport (NYO) can be found 39 kilometers to the south.
- Car: Helgesta is located along countryside roads just south of Sparreholm.
The driving distance from 5 major Swedish cities, according to Google Maps:
- Stockholm – 107 kilometers (1 h 33 min)
- Gothenburg – 399 kilometers (4 h 53 min)
- Malmö – 541 kilometers (6 h 8 min)
- Linköping – 130 kilometers (1 h 42 min)
- Kiruna – 1307 kilometers (15 h 25 min)
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