At Lessebo Handpappersbruk, every sheet of paper is formed by hand. Hollander beaters, vats and moulds are part of the traditional process—and a mill more than 300 years old is still in commercial operation. Here, Lessebo’s industrial history is not just found in historic buildings, but also in a craft practised locally.

A long history of papermaking

Lessebo Handpappersbruk was granted the right to make paper in 1719. Today, it is housed in a stone building dating from 1897. Guided tours give you the chance to explore the mill, and there is also a shop selling handmade paper. Check the mill’s current visitor information before your visit.

Lessebo kyrka also connects local history with papermaking. Construction began in 1958, and the church was inaugurated in 1960. Inside is a work of art by Susanna Arwin, made from handmade linen paper produced at Lessebo Handpappersbruk. A stained-glass window designed by Erik Höglund of Boda can also be seen on the north wall.

Industrial history in buildings and residential areas

Lessebo has a largely preserved industrial heritage that includes both industrial and residential areas. The town is also home to one of the most valuable historic industrial environments in Kronoberg County. Its history therefore extends beyond production: the housing also tells the story of how work and everyday life were connected.

Smedraden has planned rows of houses dating from the early 19th century, built for the ironworks’ blacksmiths. Djurhult, meanwhile, is one of the few unchanged residential areas of detached houses from the early 20th century. These two examples reflect different periods and forms of housing; together, they offer a glimpse into the town’s development.

Walking by Lake Läen

The Lessebo Kulturstig is close to the centre and runs along Lake Läen. The trail is just over six kilometres long, and the walk is estimated to take about two hours. Along the route, 25 signs provide information about events from the past. White rings painted on the trees mark the way. This lets you combine finding your way with learning about local history on the same walk.

The history stretches far back: iron ore was extracted by Lake Läen to make tools, and the Kulturstigen bears witness to these activities. The Lessebo Kulturstig also passes through areas where people settled as early as the Stone Age. Parking is available at the power station, at Ekebacken or near Nyäng in the direction of Toragöl.

If you would like to spend some time by the water, Hägnaviken bathing area is on Lake Läen, right next to Ekebacken in Lessebo. There is a barbecue area and a wind shelter, and the bathing area is within cycling distance of central Lessebo. Lessebo Municipality is part of Glasriket. KulTuren offers another perspective on its landscape: the circular route is 14 Swedish miles long and shares stories and history about the places along the way.

Getting here and finding your way

Lessebo station is served by the Kust-till-kust line between Gothenburg and Kalmar. When planning your train journey, you can include a stop in Lessebo and check the current departure times in the timetable. Lessebo Handpappersbruk is also located on Route 25 between Växjö and Kalmar.

Lessebo’s tourist information is located in the contact centre at the municipal building. For places to visit in Lessebo Municipality, Naturkartan provides maps, directions and historical information. This can help you decide in advance whether to focus on papermaking, industrial history or a walk by Lake Läen.

Discover more destinations: Hovmantorp, Lessebo, Skruv, Kosta, Växjö, Älmhult, Uppvidinge and Markaryd.

Back to the regional travel overview: Kronoberg.