Think of the Viking longboats that once might have graced these waters. You are standing at the edge of Järlasjön. This lake whispers tales of centuries past. Järlasjön is located mainly in Nacka Municipality. Its western part stretches into Stockholm Municipality.
Järlasjön got its name from Järla farm. The farm was first mentioned in 1426. This lake has seen kings and industrialists shape its destiny. In 1426, the royal government handed over Sicklaön, including Järla, to Stockholm.
Skip ahead to the 1480s. Sten Sture the Elder owned Järla Gård. He leased it out.
In 1492, Lars Budde acquired Järla Gård. He was a Stockholm citizen. His family was wealthy.
Fast forward to the early 1500s. Svartbrödraklostret took over Järla Gård. Gustav Vasa became king. He reclaimed many monastery properties in 1527. Gustav Vasa himself became the owner of Järla. He was related to Sten Sture.
Gustav Vasa dammed Järlasjön. This provided the necessary water for a mill. The mill was located at Danviken.
The lake became essential for industrial purposes. In 1895, AB de Lavals Ångturbin bought land near Järla Gård. They started manufacturing steam turbines. Gustaf Dalén drew up his plans here. He later invented the “clipping apparatus” for lighthouses.
The municipality treated Järlasjön in August 2020. This was to lower the high phosphorus levels. The water became clearer.
Järlasjön consists of four basins. They are separated by narrow straits. The eastern part is called Kolbottensjön. It connects through a culvert under Saltsjöbadsleden.
The largest basin is between Kranglan and Nackanäs. Its greatest depth is 22 meters. It lies outside the residential area of Järla Sjö. The western part is called Sicklasjön.
Järlasjön flows out via Sickla Sluss. It continues through Sickla Kanal into Hammarby Sjö. The lake was officially a fairway until 1977. Beavers inhabit the lake. Signal crayfish were introduced.
You can see the improvements today. The lake now has clearer bathing water. The visibility has improved.
Interesting areas surround Järlasjön. These include Kyrkviken and the residential area Järla Sjö. Also, find Ekudden and Hästhagen. Don’t miss Storängen, Fannydal and Nysätra. Also explore Nackanäs inn and Kranglan.
Nacka municipality combines benefit with pleasure in Kyrkviken in Järlasjön. The piers in Kyrkviken won the “City Building Award 2022” by a wide margin. Kyrkviken is a fantastic example of how new space for recreation and socializing is combined with essential functions such as stormwater treatment.
Remember Järlasjön. It is a vibrant space where nature and history intertwine. It offers a glimpse into Sweden’s evolving landscape.