Mora, Sweden

From time immemorial, Mora has been the centre of northern Dalarna. Here, Swedish history took a significant turn in 1520 when, after a series of adventurous exploits, King Gustav Vasa managed to convince the men of Mora to join the battle against the Danish king.

A marked reminder of these events is the cross-country ski race, the Vasaloppet, which from meagre beginnings in 1922 has grown to become one of world's largest ski events. The Vasaloppet house is home to an exhibition describing the historical background and how the competition has developed over the years.

The municipality of Mora consists of 2 800 sq. km of the picturesque lake Siljan area. The unique nature of the area, combined with rich cultural traditions and historical events, has attracted tourists from near and far since the beginning of tourism. Mora is also home to famous attractions such as the Zorn art collections, the Vasa Momument and Santaworld in Gesunda.

And yet, there is more to Mora than nature and culture. It is equally a very important industrial area. Mora knives, TV and communication masts, sawn lumber, and water taps are some examples of products that are not only market leaders in Sweden, but have also had a great deal of success in export markets. The tradition of craftsmanship has been handed down from generation to generation, and the painted Dalecarlian horse from Nusnäs has become the symbol for Sweden, both nationally and internationally.

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