Ugglevikskällan

Did the owls whisper secrets to the spring? We stand before Ugglevikskällan, the Owl Spring. Its name, echoing the nearby Uggleviken, or Owl Bay, hints at ancient mysteries. Ugglevikskällan holds a special place in Stockholm’s history. Records of this spring date back to the late 18th century. Known for its pure, health-giving water, Ugglevikskällan drew Stockholmers who came to collect the water or drink it on the spot. Imagine this place in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Ugglevikskällan transformed into a popular gathering place, especially on Trinity Sunday. People flocked here to partake in the festivities and drink the spring water. Author August Blanche even captured the vibrant atmosphere of Ugglevikskällan in his story “En trefaldighetsnatt vid Uggleviken,” or “A Trinity Night at Uggleviken.” Though a pavilion was planned in the early 1800s, the current octagonal, yellow-painted structure wasn’t inaugurated until 1902. The event was marked by a grand celebration. For many years, the spring water bubbled up from the floor of the pavilion. People would sit on the double benches, admiring the owl motifs on the backrests and the wooden-paneled ceiling, as they enjoyed the refreshing water. The water remained potable until the 1970s. Sadly, the water quality has since declined, and the spring is no longer drinkable. Only a stone paving remains in the center of the pavilion. However, spring water still emerges below the old well, forming small streams that flow down to Ugglevikskärret. There’s a long-term goal to restore the spring’s former glory. The hope is to either improve the water quality to make it drinkable again or to bring in potable water from Stockholm’s water supply network. Ugglevikskällan stands as a quiet reminder of a time when people gathered here, drawn by the promise of healing waters and community. As you stand here before Ugglevikskällan, imagine the laughter and conversations that once filled this space. Remember the stories it holds.