Marstrand
Marstrand (Swedish pronunciation: [ˈmâʂːtrand]) is a seaside locality situated in Kungälv Municipality, Västra Götaland County, Sweden. It had 1,320 inhabitants in 2010. The town got its name from its location on the island of Marstrand. Despite its small population, for historical reasons Marstrand is often referred to as a city.
Marstrand | |
|---|---|
Marstrand Marstrand | |
| Coordinates: 57°53′N 11°35′E | |
| Country | Sweden |
| Province | Bohuslän |
| County | Västra Götaland County |
| Municipality | Kungälv Municipality |
| Area | |
| • Total | 0.88 km2 (0.34 sq mi) |
| Population (31 December 2010) | |
| • Total | 1,319 |
| • Density | 1,507/km2 (3,900/sq mi) |
| Time zone | UTC+1 (CET) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC+2 (CEST) |
The city had free port status, which was declared by King Gustav III, from 1775 to 1794. Religious liberty established by the same sovereign allowed the first Swedish congregation of Jews to be established there in 1775 and Scandinavia's first synagogue to be set up in the fortress in 1780. Making it a notable site to the history of the Jews in Sweden.
Following the abolishment of the free port status and the decline of herring fishing, Marstrand established itself as a seaside resort in the 19th century.
Important annual sporting events held in Marstrand include the Stena Match Cup Sweden and Marstrand Regatta. Marstrand is known as a playground for celebrities and wealthy Swedish residents alike, who come in the summer for the sea, shopping and the nightlife.