The castle was built around a harbour and soon became “The Key to the Kingdom” and a significant defensive fortification on the then Danish border. Kalmar, a town of 60,000, succeeds in mixing the old with the new; 16th and 17th century buildings find a purpose in modern life and more recent buildings are in tune with the old. The cobblestone streets take you through the centuries of the town’s history and there is an abundance of parkland to enjoy. From here you can take a trip to Öland across the bridge, while making plans to visit ‘Glasriket’ where you can try glass blowing, see the sights and buy some Swedish art glass-ware.