An Envelope Under the Floor

When we lifted the floorboards in Clasonska gården, archaeologists found a sealed envelope—posted in Västervik, stamped 1863, and addressed to the Uppsala post office. A small thing, perhaps, yet it had rested unseen for more than 150 years in a house with an even longer memory.

Built in 1698 to designs by Olof Rudbeck the Elder, the brick building survived the great city fire of 1702 and first served as the county governor’s chancery. From 1763 to 1873 it was Uppsala’s post office—traces from this era include torn envelopes, inked names and receipts that bring everyday lives back into view. Later it became Professor Clason’s home and, in the 20th century, a training venue for Sida, part of Uppsala University, and most recently conference rooms at Akademihotellet.

Now Clasonska gården is becoming part of our hotel. Rather than hiding its past, we’re letting it speak: each floor is inspired by a different era—18th-century exotism and chinoiserie, 19th-century industrialism and steampunk, and early-1900s Arts & Crafts.

Who sent that 1863 letter, and what did it say? Come stay with us and imagine the answer.

Read more about Clasonska gården here and book: +46 (0)18-155190 • info@akademihotellet.se • our website.