What incredible days we experienced at the Grimeton Radio Station World Heritage Site during the #nationalworldheritagemeeting! With place development as its theme, #WorldHeritageinSweden gathered researchers, authorities, politicians, and World Heritage representatives from across the country to be inspired and share experiences at the Grimeton Radio Station, celebrating its 100th anniversary.
The opening in the Transmitter Hall also featured important local and regional voices: Tobias Carlsson, Chairman of the Grimeton World Heritage Foundation; David Sandrén, Chairman of the Municipal Executive Board in Varberg Municipality; Helene Andersson, Vice Chairman of the Regional Board of Region Halland; County Governor Anders Thornberg, County Administrative Board of Halland County; and Martin Pehrsson, Head of Mobile Networks at Telia Sweden AB, all shared their perspectives on the World Heritage Site’s significance for society, the region, and business.
One of the highlights was when #VänföreningenAlexander (The Friends of Alexander Association) offered a fantastic demonstration and start-up of the unique SAQ transmitter. The moment was eagerly captured by all guests’ mobile phones – a magical encounter between old and new that truly put the World Heritage Site at the center.
Minister for Culture Parisa Liljestrand (Moderates) opened the meeting with a greeting, and we heard thought-provoking presentations by, among others, Kristina Lindström from the University of Stavanger – UiS (UiS). Discussions on the significance of World Heritage from a national perspective were led by Petra Stråkendal and Elene Negussie from the National Heritage Board, together with the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency and Unesco Sweden.
The moderator was Sofia Mård Ek from Placebrandr. Anna-Karin Ferm, Chairman of the World Heritage in Sweden Association, participated and contributed important perspectives.
A particularly appreciated part of the program was when VisitVarberg and Visit Halland held a session highlighting the significance of the Grimeton World Heritage Site for the tourism industry – both as a unique attraction and as a driver for sustainable tourism in the region.
To conclude, Lena Bager spoke about the approximately 100 anniversary partners who contributed to the successful 100-year celebration during the year – proof of the strong collaboration that makes the World Heritage Site a living force locally, regionally, globally, and socially in #100yearsofcommunication.
In addition to the rich program, participants enjoyed delicious and climate-smart food in the newly opened Dining Hall at the Visitor Center – an experience that truly added a touch of luxury to the days. And as if that wasn’t enough, conference guests were treated to fun activities such as trying out 1920s dance in the Transmitter Hall with dance instructor Jenny Ammilon, or solving the exciting adult activity “Sabotage.”
It was a meeting filled with inspiration, community, and joy – a reminder that our World Heritage Sites are not just historical places, but living resources that unite people and strengthen the tourism industry. Thank you to everyone who participated and made the meeting a success!
#worldheritage #Grimeton #placesthatmakeadifference #Halland #VisitVarberg #VisitHalland #VIS2025 #VänföreningenAlexander #worldheritagesite #grimeton #placebrander Photo: Lena Bager
