Söderköping (2)

Söderköping is a town with a rich history, going back to the Middle Ages. Two mediaeval churches (or at least churches incorporating parts of earlier churches) still remind us of that time. In those days it was also an important harbour ( the old Storän river still runs through the town but is no longer navigable) and several early Swedish kings and queens were crowned or inaugurated here. These days it is a very popular tourist destination, the Göta canal plays an important part in that popularity.
We climbed the Ramunderberger from where there is a good view of the town's surroundings and then gave ourselves a tour with the aid of a brochure.
Here are some impressions:
View from above:

Belfry, built in the 16th century:

Hospital cottages from the 18th century:

Almost next to the boat is an interesting work of art, called 'Rabbits Crossing'. There are two sculptures, one on each side of the canal. On the opposite side the rabbits jump in the water. On this side they help each other to get out:

After supper we headed for "Smultronstället", the ice cream restaurant we mentioned in yesterday's post. There had been long queues from 10am to get a table but by 20:30 when we got there it was not very busy.
We 'pigged out' and don't need ice cream for the next few weeks. Meet 'Dark Orange' and 'Lido'

Tomorrow, we will probably do our last canal stretch, only 4 miles to Mem. Two locks and the day after the last one, back to sea level.

Location:Göta Kanal,Soderkoping,Sweden