Aspa, Södermanland | Exploring Sweden

Aspa is a small settlement and a historic site in Nyköping Municipality, located in the county of Södermanland, Sweden. It is situated in the historic province of Södermanland. With a population of around 120 inhabitants, Aspa is a small rural community. The area is today a part of the Rönö Parish. The many large rune stones in the area tell of its importance in the historical past, especially during the Viking Age and the Middle Ages.

The character of Aspa is that of a historic landscape. Its identity is almost entirely defined by its past role as a major political and legal center for the region. The settlement is home to an impressive collection of tall rune stones and the remains of an ancient assembly mound. These historical remnants are set within a classic Södermanland landscape of open agricultural fields and small forests. In the modern era, it is a quiet, rural community, but its historical significance makes it a key point of interest for those exploring the ancient history of Sweden.

A Short History of Aspa

The history of Aspa is that of a major regional center of power during the Viking Age and the Middle Ages. Its development was shaped by its strategic location on the ancient road networks of the province. The story of Aspa is one of a place where laws were made and where newly elected kings passed on their royal tour. This long and significant history is still visible today through its impressive ancient monuments.

The Assembly of Aspa Löt

For a long time, Aspa was the meeting spot for Rönö Härad, one of the regional divisions known as a “hundred” that were used in Sweden in the past. This was the location of the Thing (ting), which was the local council or legal assembly for the region. The assembly site was known as Aspa Löt. The Thing was a key part of the social and legal structure of medieval Sweden, where disputes were settled and important decisions were made. The assembly at Aspa Löt was in use up until the 17th century.

The King’s Road (Eriksgata)

A route of great significance passed through the area during the Middle Ages. When a new Swedish king was elected at the Mora Stones in Uppland, he had to go on a traditional tour through the country to be accepted by the different provinces. This royal tour was known as the Eriksgata, or “Erik’s Road.” The historic route through the province of Södermanland took the new king and his large retinue directly past Aspa. This further cemented the area’s importance as a central point in the province.

Sights in Aspa

Aspa has its rune stones, and that is in itself a historically impressive sight. These rune stones are also quite tall, resulting in them towering over almost any visitor. This is an area telling stories about the Vikings and their descendants during the Middle Ages. The main sights are all located in a small, concentrated area along the main road.

The Rune Stones

The primary attraction at Aspa is the impressive collection of four large Viking Age rune stones that stand in a row along the side of the old road. These stones, with their towering heights and intricate carvings, are significant historical monuments. It is believed that three of the stones (Sö 137, Sö 138, and Sö 141) were raised by the same powerful family to commemorate different family members, forming a single, cohesive memorial. The fourth stone (Sö Fv1948;289) was discovered later but is equally significant. Together, these stones offer a rare and detailed glimpse into the lives, travels, and sorrows of a high-status family during the late Viking Age. Their inscriptions tell stories of voyages to the west, likely to England, and to Denmark.

The stone known as Sö 137 is particularly famous for its inscription, which tells of Tora who raised the stone in memory of her husband Öbber, who died on a military expedition to the west. The fourth stone, Sö Fv1948;289, is historically very important as it contains one of the earliest known mentions of the name Svitjod, an early form of the name that would later become Sverige, or Sweden. The inscriptions are carved into the bodies of intertwined serpents in the typical artistic style of the period. Standing next to the former assembly mound, these stones mark Aspa as a place of great importance during the final phase of the Viking Age in Sweden.

Tingshögen (The Thing Mound)

The Tingshögen is the historic mound that is believed to be the location of the former Thing, the local assembly of Aspa Löt. The large mound is approximately 30 meters in diameter and has a height of up to 2.5 meters. This was the central point where the free men of the hundred would gather to make laws and pass judgments. The mound is today located in the center of a field. While it is not directly accessible to the public, it is possible to view it from the road.

Traveling with Kids in Aspa

The Aspa area can be an interesting stop for families with children who are interested in history. The large, towering rune stones are impressive to see for all ages. The open fields also provide a safe space for children to run around, away from heavy traffic. However, there are no dedicated facilities for children in the immediate area, such as public playgrounds. The main attraction is the historical environment itself.

How to Get to Aspa

Reaching the historic site of Aspa requires travel to a rural part of Södermanland. A car is the most practical means of transport, as public transport links to this specific location are very limited.

The Open Road: Driving to Södermanland

Driving is the most straightforward way to reach Aspa. The site is located directly on Route 223, which is a major regional road that connects the town of Björnlunda with the city of Nyköping. The main E4 motorway is located a short drive to the east. A car is essential for exploring the scattered historical sights of the region. A small parking area is available at the site of the rune stones.

Arriving by Air: Stockholm Skavsta Airport

The closest airport with regular international connections is Stockholm Skavsta Airport (NYO). It is located near Nyköping, approximately 29 kilometers to the southwest. Sweden’s main international airport, Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN), is located about 130 kilometers away. From either of these airports, a rental car is the most practical option for completing the journey.

On Track: A Journey by Rail and Bus

Aspa does not have its own train station. The closest train stations are in Nyköping and Gnesta. From either of these stations, a regional bus service operated by Sörmlandstrafiken or a taxi is required. The bus service along Route 223 may be infrequent, so it is best to check schedules in advance.

Driving Distances

The driving distance from 10 regional cities, according to Google Maps:

• Nyköping, Sweden – 19 kilometers (0 h 20 min)
• Södertälje, Sweden – 68 kilometers (0 h 50 min)
• Norrköping, Sweden – 80 kilometers (1 h 00 min)
• Stockholm, Sweden – 98 kilometers (1 h 10 min)
• Linköping, Sweden – 125 kilometers (1 h 30 min)
• Gothenburg, Sweden – 392 kilometers (4 h 20 min)
• Oslo, Norway – 474 kilometers (5 h 20 min)
• Malmö, Sweden – 536 kilometers (5 h 20 min)
• Copenhagen, Denmark – 578 kilometers (6 h 00 min)
• Kiruna, Sweden – 1,329 kilometers (14 h 40 min)

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This post was first published 2023-06-24 and was updated 2025-07-28