Eksjo is located in the county of Smaland in south east Sweden. It became a town in the beginning of the 15th century and still boasts some buildings from as early as the 1600s.
One of the most characteristic parts of Eksjo is the well preserved timber houses in the Old Town. North of the main square Stora Torget there is a medieval layout to the city, and south of the market it is neo classical. Stroll along the idyllic streets and visit the exhibition at Aschanska Garden, which is an old country mansion with original decor from the 1800s. Go on a guided tour and let your guide inform you about the family that used to live in this exciting house. By Stora Torget you also find Eksjo Church, with its 18th century tower and 17th century interior.
Ever since the 17th century, Eksjo has been a military town, and many a Swedish young man have made the journey to Eksjo to enlist at one of the regiments. During Eksjo International Tattoo you can watch uniformed marching bands from all over the world perform. Another recurring event in Eksjo is Eksjo Christmas Fair which offers that typically Scandinavian Christmas feeling and of course lots of arts and crafts and savoury and sweet delights to bring home as presents.
Don't miss the exhibitions of Eksjo Museum in the old town on your holiday in Eksjo. Enjoy temporary displays as well as the permanent collections Albert Engstrom, Eksjo through the times and Smaland's Museum of Military History. A few cultural events are held at the museum, but larger happenings in sports, entertainment and culture are assigned to Olsbergs Arena.
Around 15 kilometres from Eksjo you find the 800 metre long canyon Skurugata, and descending this you become surrounded by 35 metre walls on all sides. Just around the corner is Skuruhatten, which is one of the county of Smaland's highest points at 337 metres. These places are drenched in myths about trolls and thieves. Another literary reference known to all Swedes is Mariannelund, where the beloved children's film Emil of Lönneberga was shot, and where you today find the cinematic attraction Barnfilmbyn - the Children's Film Village.
Travel to Eksjo by car along arterial road 40, which passes through the town. There is also a bus station and a train station. Spend a weekend in Eksjo and experience the charming timbered town and its fairytale like surroundings for yourself.
