How to Find Abandoned Places in Sweden for Urbex?
Introduction
Urban exploration, or urbex, is about discovering and documenting abandoned places. But one of the most common questions among beginners is: how do you find these buildings? In Sweden, there are hundreds of factories, schools, hospitals, residences, and military facilities that stand empty, but they are not always easy to find. Many urbexers keep addresses secret to protect the sites from vandalism. Still, there are strategies, methods, and resources that can help you find new targets yourself. In this article, we guide you step by step on how to discover abandoned buildings in Sweden in a safe and respectful way.
Using Digital Tools and Maps
Google Maps and Street View
One of the best tools is Google Maps. By zooming in on industrial and rural areas, you can spot buildings with broken roofs, overgrown parking lots, or rusty structures. With Street View, you can then get a closer look without leaving home.
Historical Maps and Archives
Sweden has several digital archives where old factories, schools, and military bases are marked. Lantmäteriet’s historical maps are a good example. By comparing old maps with modern ones, you can see which buildings have been abandoned.
Satellite Images
With satellite images from, for example, Google Earth, you can see if buildings are dilapidated. Roofs with holes, overgrown roads, and empty parking lots are clear signs.
Networks, Forums, and Social Media
Urbex Forums
In Sweden, there are several urbex groups on Facebook and Reddit where enthusiasts share photos and tips. Exact addresses are rarely shared openly, but by networking, you can get clues.
Instagram and Hashtags
Search for hashtags like #urbexsverige, #abandoned, or #urbanexploration. Photographers often post pictures, and even if the location isn’t given, details in the background can reveal where the building is.
Word of Mouth Tips
Many urbexers get tips through friends or locals. In rural areas, older residents often know which factories, schools, or farms stand empty.
Explore On Site – But Safely
Look for Signs of Decay
When driving through rural areas, keep an eye out for buildings with boarded-up windows, overgrown gardens, or broken roofs.
Respect Signs and Fences
Even if a place seems abandoned, it may still be privately owned. Climbing over fences or breaking in is illegal.
Document Without Revealing
When you find a place, feel free to take pictures – but don’t share exact addresses online. This way, the building can be preserved longer from vandalism.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it difficult to find abandoned buildings in Sweden?
Not if you use maps, forums, and social media correctly.
Can you ask for permission to visit a place?
Yes, sometimes the owner can grant permission, especially for photography.
Why aren’t addresses shared openly?
To protect the buildings from vandalism and destruction.
Conclusion
Finding abandoned places in Sweden requires patience, curiosity, and creativity. By using digital tools, networking with other urbexers, and exploring on your own, you can discover hidden gems that tell unique stories. Always remember to respect both the law and the site – urbex is about documenting, not destroying.
