Caw, caw. Is that the sound of an impending attack? Welcome to Ånghästparken. This urban park in Södermalm is known for more than just its greenery.
Ånghästparken stretches from Ringvägen to Rosenlundsgatan. It offers pedestrian paths, cycling routes, and green spaces. But beware of the crows. For years, they have been known to attack passersby.
Let’s delve into the park’s history. Ånghästparken occupies former railway tracks. These tracks once connected Liljeholmen Railway Station to Södra Station. The railway operated from the 1860s until 1929. In 1929, operations ceased.
But why is it called Ånghästparken? The park is named after an old steam locomotive. Its name was “Ånghästen Stockholm”. “Ånghästen Stockholm” was an English-made steam locomotive. It ran between Stockholm and Saltskog station. Saltskog station is south of Södertälje.
In 1995, a bronze relief was mounted on the granite wall here in Ånghästparken. It depicts that very locomotive. The relief includes the text “Ånghästen Stockholm, Stockholm–Saltskog, 1860–1862”. SJ, Banverket, and Tantofolket initiated the sign.
The high old retaining wall made of grey stone still stands along Maria Bangata. This wall preserves a physical connection to the area’s railway heritage.
But back to those crows. The attacks have been a recurring problem. The attacks seem to only happen in Ånghästparken. Experts speculate it may be due to the location of the nests. The nests might be in areas exposed to people. Crows often reuse their nests.
The attacks aim to scare, not seriously harm. The worst that might happen is a scratch on the head. Experts recommend looking at the bird. That way it is known that you are watching.
The park was planned in 1984. It was built in the early 1990s along with surrounding residential buildings. A walking and cycling path runs along the park. It follows the old railway line under bridges and viaducts.
So, as you stroll through Ånghästparken, enjoy the blend of history and nature. Just keep an eye out for those protective crows. This park offers a unique glimpse into Stockholm’s past. It also shows its present-day challenges.