Swethland

Sources from old books:

1635. Historia mundi: or Mercator's atlas. London. by Gerhard Mercator.

The Kingdome of Swethland is an ancient Kingdome, as Pliny witnesseth.* 1.11 It hath on the West Norwey, on the North Lapland and Botnia, on the East •••land, seperated from it by the Botnian Bay, or Finnish Sea, & L••onia 〈◊〉 L•sland,* 1.12 disjoyned from it by the Baltick Sea, called by Ta•••us Mar• p•grum,* 1.13 by the Suc•ians Mare Su•vicum, and on the South Gothia It is a com••• the most fruitfull of all the North parts: it hath a plentifull soyle▪ and seas, lakes, and rivers abounding with fish of divers ••ndes it hath also Mettals, as Lead, Iron, Brasse, and Silver, which is digged up in very p••e oa•e neere Sl•burg: and likewise woods full of wilde beasts and honey. It is thought that it doth doubly exceede Norwey, both in largenesse, fruitfulnesse, and goodnesse of soyle, yet in some places it is •ugged and moorish. This Countrie being for some ages valiantly and happily defended & enlarged by the native Kings thereof, afterward came to the Kings of Denmarke: and having beene subject to them more than an hundred yeares, at last did shake them off, under colour, that the Lawes wh\ich they were sworne unto at their Coronation, were not observ'd, and hence it stood a while in a very uncertaine condition. But now it is returned againe to the natives, out of which it chooseth it selfe a King. There are divers Provinces of this •ingdome, some belonging to the Gothes, as Ostgothia, whereof Lincop is the Metropolis:* 1.14 Westgothia seperated with an ancient Lake from Ostgothia, whereof Scara is the Bishops seate: Also Southerne Gothia or S••alandia, •u•s•ia, Verendia, in which Vexio or Wexo is the chiefe Town. Also Meringia, and the Isle of O•land, fortified with the Castle Borgholm. Other Provinces there are that belong to Swethland, specially so called, as Oplandia, in which is Vpsal in the very centre of Swethland; heere are an Archbishops seat, publick Schooles, and many sepulchres of the Kings of Swethland, magnificently and fairely built. Also Stocholm, a fai•e Mart Towne, and one of the Kings places of residence, being fortified both by Nature and Art. It is seated in a marshie fenny place like Venice, and is named, as aforesaid, because it is built upon stakes. There is a passage to it out of the Easterne Sea, by a deepe channell through the jawes of M•lerus; and it doth let the sea flow so farre into it, that ships of great but then may easily come with full sayles into the Haven. But the towre Waxholme on the one side, and Digna on the other side doe so straighten the entrance, that no ships can come in or goe forth against the Governours will, who keepe watch there. On the Southerne banke of M•le••• lyeth Sudermannia, whose townes are Tolgo, Strengenes the seate of a Bishop, and the Castle Gripsholme. In the third place is N•••ct• in which is the castle Orebo, & toward the West the countrie of Westmannia, and the cities Arosia, neere to which there is such excellent silver, that Artificers can extract out of fifteene pounds of silver one pound of gold and Arboga doe lye neere unto a Lake. From thence toward the West doe lye Westerne Dalia, the Easterne and Sol•es Dalia, so called from the Lake Sol•on; which three Provinces together with the greater part of the mountainous Provinces, are under the Bishop of Sa•••s•. Heere are minerall veines, which stretch themselves Eastward to the Baltick Sea, and to the Bay of Helsing•a, and toward the West they runne almost without interruption through Wermeland to the Westerne Ocean, so that in every part there is digged up some kinde of mettall, as Silver, Coppresse, Lead, Iron, Steele, or Sulphure. Toward the North neere unto Opland are these Countries, first Gestricia, then Helsing, after that Midelpadia, and beyond that the Northerne and Southerne Angermannia. Then is there North-Botnia, divided into West-Botnia and East-Botnia, both of them being large Provinces: and after these towards the North lye z 1.15 Scricfinnia, a 1.16 Lapland, and Biarmia. These or most of these ancient Provinces of the Kingdome of Swethland, the Botnick Bay stretched forth from the Balthick straight Northward to Toronia, & beyond the Artick Circle, doth divide from Finland a large Peninsula: at the Southward point whereof are the Islands of Alandia or Alant, and Abo a Bishops Seate, and on the North point Withurgeum. Finland is divided into the Northerne & Southerne Finland, to which the higher and lower Natagundia, Savolosia, Tavastia, all very large countries are adjoyned. From thence beyond the Finnick Bay is b 1.17 Corelia, the Metropolis whereof is Hexholme or Kexholme: and toward the West Wotichonia, in which is the mouth of the River Lovat, that glideth by Novogardia, which the Inhabitants call Ny: above Copora is Ingria, in which standeth the Forts Iamagrod and Solonseia, wherein standeth Ivanogrod, over against Nerva or Narva; confining upon these toward the South are the provinces of Lieflandia or Civonia, extended even from Nerva to Revalia or Revel, and Prenovia or Parniew, as first Allantacia wherein Nerva is a Bishops See; then Wiria, whereof Wesemberg is a Bishops See: besides Wichia, wherein Habsay is a Bishops seate, and the Isle Dagen or Dachlen, most of which Countries beyond the Finnick Bay were added to the Kingdome of Swethland, in the yeare 1581; by the valour and good successe of King Iohn the third, after that Revalia had willingly yeelded it selfe to Ericus the fourteenth King of Swedes, Anno 1561. Swethland hath many fishing-waters,* 1.18 and many rivers gliding through it. The Countrey it selfe is rugged, being full of mountaines and woods.* 1.19 * 1.20 The subjects are partly Church-men, partly Lay-men;* 1.21 the Lay-men are either Nobles or Commons. The chiefe title of Nobility is Knighthood, which is solemnly conferr'd by the King as a reward of vertue.* 1.22 The provinces are governed by the natives. If the Inhabitants be compar'd with the Germans, they have lesse civilitie, but are more industrious and witty, so that every countrey-fellow with them hath skill almost in all trades, and all mechanick Arts.

1652 Cosmographie in four bookes by Peter Heylyn. 6 The SWEDISH ISLANDS.

And now at last I come to the Swedish Islands, here and there interspersed in the Baltick Seas, betwixt the Isle of Bornholm which belongs to Denmark, and Liefland or Livonia, appertaining to the King of Poland; the principall of which are 1 Gothia, or the Isle of Gothland; and 2 Insulae Vlandae, or the Isles of Oelandt.

1. GOTHIA, or the Isle of GOTHLAND, is situate over against Colmar, a strong town in the Continent of Gothland; in length 18 Dutch miles, and five in breadth. Of a rich soile, but more fit for past•rage then till age, yeelding great heards of Cattell, store of game for hunting, plenty of fish, excellent marble, and aboundance of pitch, which it sends forth to other Countreys. There are in it 18 large and wealthy Villages; besides the Haven town of Wisbich, heretofore rich, and of very geeat trading, as much frequented by the Merchant as most in Europe, but now much decayed, and neither so well peopled, nor so rich as formerly. The trade removed hither from Wollin of Pome•ania (destroyed by Waldemar the first of Denmark, anno 1170) made it flourish mightily: the greatest traffick of the Baltick being managed here: but after that by reason of the long and continuall wars betwixt Denmark and Swethland for the possession of this Isle, it became unsafe; the Factorie was transferred unto other places. For being conveniently seated to annoy the Swedes, the Danes have much contended for it, and sometimes possessed it; but at the present is in the hand of the Swethlander. By some conceived to be the Eningia spoken of by Pliny.

2 OELAND, or the Isles of Vlande, so called in the plurall number because there are many of them, of which this the principall, is situate over against Ab•, the chief City of Finland. Of no great note, but that it is commodiously seated to invade or annoy this kingdome; and therefore very well fortified, and as strongly garrisoned: here being the good towns of 1 Viburg, 2 Vames, and 3 the strong Castle of Castrolm.

Besides which Countreys here described, the King of Sweden is possessed of the strong townes of Narve and Rivallia, and Pernow in Liefland; of Kexholm or Hexholm in Corelia, a Province of Russia; with very fair and ample territories appertaining to them: subdued and added to this Crown by John the second, anno 1581. except Rivallia, which voluntarily submitted to Ericus the second King of this present Race, anno 1561. But being these Townes and Territories are not within the bounds of Swethland; we shall deferre all further discourse thereof, to a place more proper.

The first Inhabitants of this kingdome, besides the Gothes and Finni, spoken of already, were the Sitones, and Suiones, mentioned in Tacitus; together with the Phavonae, the Phiraesi, and the Levoni, whom we finde in Ptolemie, placed by him in the East and middle of this great Peninsula. Which being the generall names of some mighty Nations, are by Jornandes branched into lesser tribes, of the Suethans, 〈◊〉, Vagoth, Bergio, Hallin, Liothida, Athelni•, Gaurigoth, Raumaricae, Rauragnicii, Grannii, Aganziae, 〈◊〉, Arochitamii, Enagerae, Othingi, and divers others by him named. But from what root the name of Sweden, Swedes, or Swethland, by which the chief Province of it, the people generally, and the whole kingdome is now called, is not yet agreed on, nor spoken of at all by Munster or Crantzius, which two, (but specially the last) have written purposely of this people. Gaspar Peucerus deriveth them from the Sucvi, who antiently inhabited in the North parts of Germanie beyond the Albis; from whom the Baltick sea was called Mare Suevicum: which people hee conceiveth to have beene driven by the Gothes and Daci into this countrey, and by the change of one letter onely to be called Sueci. But this hath no good ground to stand on, though I meet with many others which are more improbable. For when they left those colder countreys, they fell into these parts which are still called Suevia (the Schwaben of the modern Dutch) where we finde them in the time of Caesar. And after, in fatali illa gentium commigratione, when almost all the Northern Nations did shift their seats, we finde such of them as had staid behinde, to have accompanied the Vandals in their on-fals into Gaul and Spain. Of any expedition of theirs crosse the Baltick seas, ne•gry quidem, nothing to be found in more antient Authors. We must therefore reserve the originall of this people either to the Suiones, or the Suethidi, or perhaps to both: both being antiently setled in these Northern Regions. Of the Suiones wee read in the booke of Tacitus inscribed De Moribus Germanorum; by whom reported to be strong in men, armour, and shipping: and that they were inhabitants of Scandia, appeares by two circumstances in that Authour. 1 That the people were not permitted to weare weapons, quia subitos hostium incursus prohibet Oceanus, because the Ocean was to them a sufficient Rampart; which could not be affirmed of the antient Suevians, but agreeth very well with the situation of this present Countrey, defended by the baltick, and vast Northern Ocean, from the sudden assaults of any enemy. 2. Because the Sea which hemmed in that people was conceived to be the utmost bound of the World; trans Suiones 〈◊〉, quo cingi claudique terrarum orbis fines, as his words there are: which wee know to hold good of this Countrey. Adde unto these this passage of the old Annals of the Emperour Lewis the second, where it is told us of the Danes, 〈◊〉 patria apud Suiones exulabant, that they were banished into the countrey of the Su•ones, which cannot so well be understood of any place as of this Sweden; being next neighbour unto Denmark. And 4 that this people both by Munster and Crantzius, are as well called Suiones as Su••i or Sue•i: which sheweth what they conceived of their true Originall. Then for the Suethans or the 〈◊〉, whom Jornandes speaks of in his book De•ebus G•tici•, they are by him placed in the Isle of Scandia (for such this great 〈◊〉 was estee•ed to be by most antient writers.) Now that these Suethidi are no other then the present Suethlanders appeareth 1. by the propinquity of the names; 2 In that he maketh the Finni and Finnaithae, the next neighbours to them; and 3 in that they are affirmed by the same Authour, to have furnished the Romans with rich Furs, and the skins o• wilde Beasts, with which commodities this countrey is aboundantly well stored. Now to which of these two Nations, either the Suiones or the Suethidi, those of Sweden are most endebted for their originall, will (I conceive) be no great controversie: the Suethans, and Suethidi of Jornandes, being no other then a tribe of the Suiones, though the greatest and most powerfull of all those triles: placed therefore in the front to command the rest, and so most like to give the name unto the whole.

Their government was antiently under Kings, affirmed so to be by Tacitus, who telleth us also that they were absolute and free, nullis exceptionibus, non precario jure regnandi, not bound in C•venant with their people, nor holding their Estates at the will of the Subject. But their Historians have gone for Antiquity hereof beyond the story of Brute or the Trojan warre, (beyond which very few of that strain have dared to pretend) as high as unto Magog the son of Japhet; reigning here within 90 years after the flood. But letting passe these dreams and dotages of the Monkish times, certain it is, that sometimes they were under the Danes, sometimes under the Norwegians, sometimes had distinct Kings of their owne, and finally sometimes were comprehended with the Danes and Norwegians, under the generall name of Normans, conducted by one King or Captain upon forain actions. Omitting therefore the succession of their former kings, of whose very being there is cause to make great question; we will begin our Catalogue of them with Jermanicus, who entertained Harald King of Denmark, and his brother Regenfride, driven out of that kingdome by Gottricus or Godfrey, the Contemporary of Charlemagne, of whose successours Munster giveth us more certainty.

The KINGS of SWEDEN.

• 1 Jermanicus.
• 2 Frotho.
• 3 Herotus.
• 4 Sorlus.
• 5 Biornus.
• 6 Wichsertus.
• 7 Ericus.
• 8 Ostenus.
• 9 Sturbiornus.
• 10 Ericus II.
• 11 Olaus.
• 12 Edmundus.
• 13 Stinkalis.
• 14 Halsienus.
• 15 Animander.
• 16 Aquinus.
• 17 Magnus.
• 1150 18 Sherco 13.
• 1160 19 Carolus 8.
• 1168 20 Canutus 54.
• 1222 21 Ericus III. 27.
• 1249 22 Bingerius 2.
• 1251 23 Waldemarus 26.
• 1277 24 Mognus II. 13.
• 1290 25 Birgerius II. 23.
• 1313 26 Magnus III. son to Ericus the brother of Byrgerius was also chosen King of Norwey.
• 1326 27 Magnus IV. King of Sweden and Norwey, which last he gave in his life time to Hayvin or Aquinus his second son, and after the death of Ericus his eldest son (his designed successour in this Crown) was outed of this kingdome by the practise of
• 1463 28 Albert Duke of Mecklenburg, son of Euphemia the sister of Magnus the fourth; to the prejudice of Aquinus king of Denmark and Norwey, made King of Sweden, on that quarrell vanquished by Margaret Queen of Denmark and Norwey, widow of Aquinus, anno 1387. to whom desirous of liberty he resigned his Kingdom, and dyed in his own countrey, anno 1407.
• 1387 29 Margaret Queen of Denmark, Sweden, and Norwey, the Semiramis of Germany, having united the three Kingdomes under her command, caused an Act of State to be passed in Colmar, a chiefe town of Swethland, for the perpetuation of this union unto her successours; the Lawes and Priviledges of each Kingdome continuing as before they were.
• 1411 30 Ericus IV. Duke of Pomeren, adopted by Margaret, of whose sister Ingelburgis he was descended, was in her life time chosen King of the three Kingdomes, into which he succeeds actually after her decease; but outed of them all by a strong faction raised against him, anno 1439. he dyed in a private estate in Pomeren, anno 1559.
• 1439 31 Christopher Count Palatine and Duke of Bavier (in title only) son of the Lady Margaret sister of Ericus succeeded in all three Kingdomes. After whose death the Swethlanders being weary of the Danish Government, broke the agreement made at Colmar for the uniting of the three Kingdomes under one Prince, and chose one Carolus Ca•utus to be their King, anno 1448.
• 1448 32 Carolus Canutus, one of the meanest of the Nobility, and not long pleasing to the great ones: whose displeasure when he had incurred and feared the consequents thereof, hee gathereth together all the treasure he could, fled unto Dantzick, and there ended his dayes.
• 1455 33 Christiern King of Denmark and Norwey, called in by a party of the Swedes, and crowned King of Swethland; but outed againe under colour that he had not kept conditions with them: the kingdome governed after that (for a time) by Marshals.

• 1458 34 John King of Denmark and Norwey, the sonne of Christiern, received king by the Swedes, then overpowered by the Muscovite: but their turne being served they expelled him againe; returning to their former government under Marshals. Of which Marshals (descended from Steno Stur, the Uncle of Carolus Canutus by his Mothers side) there were three in number; viz. Steno, 2 Suanto, and 3 Steno Stur the second, of which the two first dyed naturall deaths, and the last being by Christiern the second slaine in battell, this kingdom was again possessed by the Danes.
• 1519 35 Christiern II. King of all three kingdome, used his victory so cruelly here, and his subjects so insolently at home; that here he was outed by Gustavus Ericus, and driven out of Denmark by his Uncle Frederick.
• 1523 36 Gustavus Ericus descended from the antient race of the kings of Sweden, having vanquished and expelled the Danes, was on the merit of that action chosen king of Swethland; which still continueth in his house.
• 1561 37 Ericus V. sonne to Gustavus 8.
• 1569 38 John II. brother of Ericus, marryed Catharine the sister of Sigismund the second, king of Poland.
• 1593 39 Sigismund the sonne of John the second, in the life time of his Father chosen king of Poland, anno 1586. but was dispossessed of the Crown of Sweden, (after a long warre) by his Uncle Charles.
• 1607 40 Charles II. Duke of Suderman, the youngest son of Gustavus Ericus, and brother of John and Eric, the two former Kings, first governed here as Viceroy for his Nephew Sigismund; but having an aime upon the Crowne (to which he found the Lutherans not very favourable) hee raised up a Calvinian partie within that Realm, according to whose principles he began first to with draw his obedience from his naturall Prince, and afterwards to assume the Government to himselfe: speeding so well in his designe, that after a long war he forced his Nephew to desist from all further enterprises, and made himself king, anno 1607.
• 1611 41 Gustavus Adolphus sonne of Charles having setled his affaires in Sweden, and made peace with the king of Denmarke, with whom his father was in warre at the time of his death; fell first upon his Cousin Sigismund the King of •oland, from whom hee tooke many places of importance in Prussia and Livonia, and in pursuance of that warre was made Knight of the Garter. Afterwards having setled a truce with him, hee passed into Germanie, then in great danger of being absolutely inthralled to the house of Ausiria. In which hee prospered so beyond all expectation, that in one yeare hee passed over the •lb, the Rh•ne, and the Danow (which no Conquerour ever did before): and having twice vanquished the Imperialists led by Ti•y, and restored many of the German Princes unto their estates; was in the current of his victories slaine in the battell of Lutzen, Novemb. 1632. his body royally conveyed to Swethland and there interred.
• 1632 42 Christina sole daughter of Gustavus, of the age of seven yeares, acknowledged Queen of Sweden; the estate governed by the Counsails of the Nobility. After a long warre with variable successe in Germanie, they came at last to this Accord in the treaty of Munster, that shee and her successours Kings and Queens of Swethland, should peaceably enjoy all the Higher Pomeren, with the Isles of Rugia, Wollm, and the Towne of Stetin in Lower Pomerland; the Towne and Port of Wismar in the Dukedome of Mecklenburg; and the whole Bishoprick of Bremen and Verden, and the Prefecture of the Towne of Wilchusen; with the title of Dukes of Brem•n, Pomeren, and Verden, Princes of Rugia, and Lorde of Wismar; and by those titles have a place, as Princes of the Empire, in all Diets and Assemblies which concerne the publick. By which agreement (if it hold) the Swedes have not onely got a good footing in Germanie, a strong influence upon all the Counsels of the Empire, a dore open for more forces (if occasion bee) and a free passage into the Western Ocean, which before they wanted: but may in time prove absolute Masters of the Baltick sea, and make the Hamburgers, those of Lubeck, and possibly the Kings of Denmark and the Empire it selfe, be at their devotion.

But leaving these things to the doubtfull issue of contingencie, let us next looke upon the forces and Revenues of the Crowne of Sweden, before the time of Gustavus Adolphus, or as hee found it at his succession to that Crowne. For though the Swedes pretend their Kingdome to be elective, especially since the failing of the Royall line in Magnus the fourth and Alb•rt of Mecklenbourg; yet still the eldest son, or next heir succeedeth, unlesse put by, by faction and strong hand, as in the case of Sigismund, and his Uncle Charles. Which Charles so ordered his affaires that having engaged the kingdome in a warre agains his Nephew, hee was sollicited at the last to accept of the Crowne: to which he would by no meanes yeeld till a Law was made for the entailing of the same for ever unto his posterity, whether male or female, as an Hereditary Crown, But whether Hereditary or Elective, the King once setled in the Throne is an absolute Monarch: having not onely power to levie taxes on his subjects, as hee seeth occasion, as five, six, seven, eight dollars, or more yearely, upon every housholder, according to the Proportion of his estate; but also to grant a certaine number of Paisants unto such as hee meanes to favour, to bee as 〈◊〉 and va•sals to him, according to his well deserving. And whereas in the constitution of this Government every Parish hath a Landsman or Consul to decide the controversies of the same; as every Territorie hath its Vicount, and each Province his Lamen: there lyeth an Appeal from the Land•man unto the Vicount, and from the Vicount to the Lamen; who if they bee supposed not to judge uprightly, then the Appeale lies unto the Counsell, and from the Counsell of Estate to the King himselfe, (in whom is fixed the Soveraignty and DERNIER RESORT) and not unto the King and Counsell, as before in Denmark.

The Forces of this King are either by Sea, or Land. By Sea, hee is Commander wholly of Bodner, and hath a great power in all the rest of the Baltick: being able to set out 70 good Men of Warre; as John the second did in the yeare 1578. seven of which were good Gallions; and all the rest did carry above 50 cast peeces of all sorts; besides many other good Vessels fit for service. And if a Navie of this size will not serve the turne, hee is not onely furnished with timber, cordage, and all other necessaries for the building of Ships, and with good store of Ordinance and Ammunition for present use; but is able to raise upon a sudden 6000 Mariners, and upon little warning as many more: all which hee entertaineth at no other charges in a manner then to finde them victuals, insomuch as John the second before mentioned did use to say, that that which cost the King of Spaine a Million of Crownes, cost not him 10000 Dollars.

For his Land-forces, they may best be estimated by the Trained Bands, (as wee may call them) in every Province: there being in all 3• Vexill•s (or Ensignes) of Foot constantly trained and mustered in the severall Provinces; each Vexille comprehending 600 or 700 men, amounting in the totall to 20000 Foot, all in a manner Musketiers, ready to march whensoever the Kings occasion shall so require. And then for Horse there are eleven Cornets in continuall readinesse, for Sweden, and Gothland, and two for Finland, maintained at the charges of those Countries, to whi•h the King may adde at his owne charges, as many more as hee pleaseth. And for an instance of what this King is able to doe, without putting his estates in hazard by drayning them too drye of men to make good his kingdome; wee finde that John the second in his Navie of 70 Ships spoken of before, had above 18000 Land-souldiers, besides Mariners: And in the Army which Gustavus Adolphus the late King brought into Germanie, there were mustered no •ewer at one time then 12000 Horse, and 34000 Foot, all Finnes, and Swethlanders. For the accommodating of which Armies with Artillerie, and the like Engines of war, it is thought that the kings hereof are masters of 8000 great peeces, for the most part brasse, with Mortar peeces and Granadoes in proportion to them.

But that which makes his Land forces most considerable is their hardnesse in enduring the extremities of winde and weather, insomuch that it is usuall with th•m to stand Centinell a whole Winters night of 18 houres long without being relieved: their exact Discipline, and obedience to their Commanders, and finally their indefatigable industry in making their owne sh•es, Apparrels, stockes for Muskets, and all other necessaries. Which doth not onely make them fit to endure any labour which is put upon them in the warres; but keepes them from idlenesse, and the pride of Mutinies, the ordinary effect in great Armies of sloth and ease. Nor doe they want incouragement on the Kings part neither; who first, gives to every souldier victuals, which hee accompts not in their pay, and that according to his obedience and desert; 2. If a souldier be taken Prisoner, him the King doth usually redeem at his owne charges: and 3 if a souldiers horse be slain under him, the King supplyeth him with another: which makes the souldiers (very sensible of such obligations) exceedingly conformable unto his commands, how dangerous soever they may seem to be.

Finally as for his Revenues they must needes bee great, there being foure wayes allowed him to amasse his treasures. First the Revenues of the Church, consisting before the Reformation of seven Bishopricks and sixty Monasteries, which enjoyed very great possessions; all seized on by Gustavus Ericus, and by him incorporate to the Crowne; excepting onely what is given back to maintaine the Bishops. 2 Mines, which are here of all metalls in very great plenty, except of Gold and Silver, which they have more sparingly; the tenth whereof in all places belongs to the King, and yeelds him such a fair Intrado, that in the yeare 1578. the Kings part out of two or three Mixes of Copper onely amounted to 30000 Dollars. 3 Tenths, out of all increase, as Rie, Wheat, Barley, Fish, Oxen, Skinnes, and the like commodities; the summe whereof though not certainly knowne (because the increase is so uncertaine) yet it was once computed that the tenth of the Oxen onely came in one yeare to 18000 Dollars, besides provision for his houshold. 4 And lastly, Customes imposed on Merchandise, and paid in all his Haven Townes for all commodities imported, or exported of what sort soever. Be•d•s all which hee hath his Contributions in all times of warre, power of imposing taxes (though moderately used) as his necessities require: and on the marriage of a daughter, the kingdome is to provide her portion, which of late times hath beene fixed at the certaine summe of 100000 Dollars, besides Plate and M•veables. Out of which severall Items to summe up the totall, it was observed that in the yeare 1578. King John the second, (all charges ordinary and extraordinary being first deducted) did lay up in his Treasurie no lesse then 700000 Dollars: which was a vast summe for those times, considering especially the great charge which the King had been at that yeare, in furnishing a Navie of 70 sayle, and raising 18000 Land-souldiers, (besides Horse) for defence of his Realme against the Danes. And yet it is conceived by some knowing men that his Revenues would be much greater then they are, if hee did employ strangers to worke the mines, which the Natives doe not husband to the best advantage; and yet are fearfull to discover them to other Nations, upon some jealousies which they are naturally addicted to: or if hee would turne Merchant, and in his owne ships send out Corn and Cordage with Masts and Timber fit for building, and in them bring back salt and other necessaries, which his kingdome wants, setting them at a farre lesse price then now they goe at, and yet gaining very greatly by it too.

The Armes of this Kingdome are Azure, three Crownes, Or.

There are in Swethland Archbishops 2. Bishops 8. Universities but one, viz. Vpsal.

And thus much for SWETHLAND.

1682. Cosmography and geography in two parts by Richard Blome.

SWEDEN; which comdrehendeth the Regions of

• SUEONIE; whose parts are
  • SUEONIE, with its Provinces of
    • Upland,
      • Stockholme,
      • Upsal.
    • Westermannie,
      • Vesteras,
      • Arbog,
      • Koping.
    • Dalecarlie, — Idra.
    • Nericie, — Orebrog.
    • Sundermannie,
      • Nikoping,
      • Strengnes.
  • NORTHLAND, with its Parts of
    • Gestricie, — Gevalie,
    • Helsinge, Hudwickswalde.
    • Medelpapie, Indal.
    • Angermannie, Heronsand.
    • Bothnie, — Torne.
• LAPPONIE, or Lapland, in part, to wit, LAPPONIE, most Southern, where are the Marches of
  • Vina-Lapmarck, — Loisby.
  • Pitha-Lapmarck, Sytovoma.
  • Lula-Lapmarck, Torpajaur.
  • Torne-Lapmarck, Sequara.
  • Kimi-Lapmarck, — Somby.
• GOTHLAND, or Gothie; whose parts are
  • OSTRO-GOTHLAND, with its Provinces of
    • Ostro-Gothland,
      • Wadstein,
      • Schening,
      • Linkoping,
      • Norkoping,
      • Sunderkoping.
    • Smalandie,
      • Calmar,
      • Jenekoping,
      • Vexjo,
      • Ekesio,
      • Westerwick.
    • Ocland Isle, — Borkholm.
  • WESTRO-GOTHLAND, with its Provinces of
    • Westro-Gothland,
      • Gotheburg,
      • Scara,
      • Mariestad,
      • Lidekoping.
    • Dalie, — Daleborg.
    • Vermeland, — Carolstad.
  • FINLAND, — Finland,
    • Abo,
    • Bienborg.
  • And Provinces united to FINLAND, as
    • Cajanie, — Ula.
    • Savolaxie, Nyslot.
    • Tavastie, Tavasthus.
    • Nyland, Botgo.
    • Carelie, Wyborg.
    • Ke•holm, — Kesholm.
• INGRIA, which cannot be divided into Provinces,— Notteborg.
• LIVONIE, whereof the part belonging to Sweden, may be divided into
  • Esten,
    • Hapsel,
    • Revel,
    • Nerva,
    • Derpt.
  • Letten, — Riga.

SWEDEN.

• The Estates of the Crown of SWEDEN, are composed of six different Regions, to wit,
  • SWEDEN, particularly so called, whose parts are
    • SUEONIE; where are the Provinces of
      • Upland,
        • Stockholm,
        • Upsal,
        • Enkoping,
        • Sigtun,
        • Oregrand.
      • Westmannie,
        • Westeras, or Arosia,
        • Arbog,
        • Koping.
      • Dalecarlie, — Idra.
      • Nericie, — Orebrog.
      • Sudermannie,
        • Nikoping,
        • Strengnes,
        • Tleg,
        • T••silia,
        • Tvosa.
    • NORLAND; where are the Provinces of
      • Gestricie, — Gevalia.
      • Helfinge, Hudwickswalde.
      • Medelpadie, Indal.
      • Angermannie, Hernosand.
      • Pothnie, — Torne.
  • LAPLAND; in part, to wit, LAPPONIE SUEDOISIE, or LAPLAND; where are the Parts of
    • Vina-Lapmarck,
      • Loisby,
      • Semifierli.
    • Pita-Lapmarck,
      • Sytovoma,
      • Lochtary,
      • Arny•rfuy.
    • Lula-Lapmarck,
      • Torpajaur,
      • Sirckflucht,
      • Jokomuka.
    • Torne-Lapmarck,
      • Sequara,
      • Tinquara,
      • Pederjersi,
      • Kittilaby,
      • Sodenkyle.
    • Kimi-Lapmarck,
      • Somby,
      • Kimiby,
      • Kolajerfui,
      • Kithyerfui,
      • Marnselkeby.
  • GOTHLAND, with its two parts,
    • OSTRO-GOTHLAND, or Gothie Orientale, with its Provinces of
      • Ostro-Gothland,
        • Wadstein,
        • Schening,
        • Linkoping,
        • Norkoping,
        • Sunderkoping.
      • Smalandie,
        • Cal•ar,
        • Jenekoping,
        • Vexjo,
        • Ekesio,
        • Westorwick.
      • Oclald, — Borcholm.
    • WESTRO-GOTHLAND, or Gothie Occidentale, with its Provinces of
      • Westro-Gothland,
        • Gotheburg, or Lodusia,
        • Scara,
        • Mariestad,
        • Lidekoping,
        • Falekoping,
        • Skedui,
        • Hio,
        • Bogesund,
        • Br•tta,
        • Lundos.
      • Dalie, — Daleborg.
      • Vermeland, — Carolstad.
  • FINLAND, which may be divided in
    • FINLAND,
      • South Finland,
        • Abo,
        • Raseborg,
      • North Finland,
        • Biernborg,
        • Raumo,
        • Nystadh,
        • Nadhendal.
    • Aland Isles,— Castelholm.
    • Provinces united to FINLAND, as those of
      • Cajanie,
        • Ula,
        • Wassa, or Mustasar,
        • Cajaneborg,
        • Ulaborg.
      • Savolax, — Nyslot, or New Castrum.
      • Tavaste, — Tavasthus.
      • Nyland,
        • Borgo,
        • Helsingfors.
      • Caresie, — Wiburg.
      • Kexh•lm, — Kexholm, or Barelogorod.
  • INGRIA, which is not subdivided into Provinces,
    • Notteburg, or Orescu,
    • Juanogorod.
    • Caporia,
    • Jamagorod.
  • LIVONIA, in part; as (The rest belongeth to the Crown of POLAND.)
    • ESTEN, or ESTONIE; where are the parts of
      • Esten, — Febin.
      • Vickeland,
        • Pernajo,
        • Habsel.
      • Harneland, — Revel.
      • Wireland,
        • Wiesenburg,
        • Tolsburg.
      • Alantack,
        • Nerva,
        • Nyslot.
      • Jervenland, — Wittenstein.
      • Kikeland, — Derpt.
    • LETTEN, with its parts and places, as they lie
      • Towards the West,
        • Riga,
        • Segenwold,
        • Wenden,
        • Walmer.
      • Towards the South,
        • Koekenhaus,
        • Creutzburg,
        • Dunburg.
      • Towards the East, — Maryenburg.

SWEDEN.

THe Estates of the Swede are all on the Baltick Sea, and take up all those Regions which are on the West, East, and North of this Sea, and is Southwards of Poland, Germany, and Denmark.

The Estates of the Swede are bounded on the West and North by the Estates of Denmark,* 2.102 on the East by those of Moscovy, and on the South by the Black Sea, Poland, and Denmark; they comprehend six principal Regions, viz. Sweden, Lapland, Gothland, Finland, Ingra, and Livonie.

SWEDEN,* 2.103 particularly so called, is divided into the parts of Sueonie and Norland, in both which are several Provinces, which are taken notice of in the Geographical Table of Sweden: It is bounded on the East with Sinus Bodicus, on the West the Dofrine Hills, and on the South Gothland. The Country is very fruitful and delicious, unless in some places, occasioned by the cragginess of the Mountaine, the great Marishes yet undrain'd, and the vast Woods yet standing. The places of most note in this part are 1. Stockholm, seated in a watry Marish, in part upon the Lake Meller, and in part on the East Sea, out of which the great Trade for Shipping to this City doth come, its Port being capacious and safe; which is defended by two powerful Forts, as also the City by an impregnable Castle, well furnished with Ammunition. This City being the residence of the King, as the Metropolitan City, (whose Palace is more renowned for its Antiquity than Magnificence) makes it to be a place of a considerable Trade, and well frequented. 2. Ʋpsal, seated not far from the Bay of Bodner, dignified with a See of an Archbishop, as also with an Ʋniversity, and beautified with a Cathedral Church, no less large than fair, formerly the Burial place of the Swedish Kings. 3. Nikoping, a Maritim Town, of good strength. 4. Copordel, famous for its abundance of Brass. 5. Westeras, or Arosia, of note for its rich Mines of Silver, which are exceeding profitable to the King. 6. Hudwickswalde, seated on the Sea or Gulph of Botnie. 7. Orebrog, 8. Gevala, 9. Indal, 10. Hernosand, and 11. Torne.

LAPLAND is the most Northern part of Scandinavia; the People are barbarous, * 2.104 rude, void of Arts or Letters, great Idolaters, Sarcerers, and Witches, for which the place is famous, or rather infamous: of stature they are low, but strong and active, expert in the Bow, with which they kill their wild Beasts in hunting, eating the Flesh, and clothing themselves with the Skins, which they tie about them to preserve them from the pinching Cold.

Lapland is divided into five parts, viz. Vina-Lapmarck, Pita-Lapmarck, Luna-Lapmark, Torne-Lapmarck, and Kimi-Lapmarck; and these parts are but thinly beset with Towns, contenting themselves with Sheds and Cabins, which they remove from place to place as occasion serveth. Its chief places I have set down in the Geographical Table of Sweden.

GOTHLAND is divided into Ostro-Gothland and Westro-Gothland, that is, * 2.105 the Land of the Eastern and Western Goths; and these two parts are subdivided into several Provinces, viz. Ostro-Gothland, Smalandie, and Oelald, in the first part; and Westro-Gothland, Dalie, and Vermeland in the other part. This is the richest and best Province of the North, and very fertil in Corn and Cattle; in it is the famous Lake Wenir, or Werett, which receiving 24 Rivers, disburthens it self at one Mouth, and with such noise and fury, that it beareth the name of the Devils-head. The places of most note in Ostro-Gothland are 1. Wadstein, seated on a Lake; 2. Calmar, on the confines of Denmark, seated on the Baltick Sea, a large City, enjoying a good Trade, having a commodious Port, defended by a strong and beautiful Castle. 3. Linkoping, and 4. Vexio, both Episcopal Sees. 5. Westerwick, commodiously seated on the Baltick Sea. In Westro-Gothland are the places of 1. Gotheburg, or Lodusia, a Town of great Trade by reason of its fair and commodious Haven. 2. Scara, an Episcopal Sea; 3. Daleburg, a fair Town, well fortified with a strong Castle; and 4. Carolstad.

FINLAND hath on the East Sinus Finicus,* 2.106 on the South the Baltick Sea, on the West Sinus Bodicus, and on the North Bodinus. The Inhabitants (according to Tacitus) are very barbarous and poor, being destitute of Arms (except Bow and Arrows) Horse, and Houshold-goods, contenting themselves with Herbs for their food, the Skins of Beasts for their clothing, and the Ground for their Bed; yet it is said to be very populous in Towns and Families; the chief amongst which are 1. Abo, seated at the bottom of the Bay of Finland, which separates this Province from Livonia, dignified with the See of a Bishop. 2. Bienborg, 3. Raumo, 4. Hadhendal, and 5. Castleholm, in the Isle of Aland.

• 2.107Provinces united to Finland, are 1. CAJANIE, whose chief places are Ʋla, Wassa, and Cajaneborg. 2. SAVOLAX, whose chief place is Nislot. 3. TAVASTE, which hath for its chief place Tavasthus. 4. NYLAND, whose chief places are Borgo, a place of great strength, near to which (within the confines of Moscovy) are the two strong Frontier Towns of Viburg and Rivallia, the keeping of which stands the King of Sweden in 100000 Dollars yearly. 5. CARELIE hath for its for its chief place Wiburg: and 6. KEXHOLME, whose principal place bears the same name.

Other Lands adjacent to Finland, are Bodia and Scrickfinnia.

• 2.108BODIA, hath on the South Finland, a Country not over fertil in Grain or Fruits; but in recompence hath great variety of wild Beasts, which affoes great store of rich Furrs. It chiief places are Virtis, Vista, and Helsinga, honoured with the Title of a Dukedom.

SCRICKFINNIA hath on the South Bodia, and thence stretcheth it self between Lapland and the Frozen Ocean; a Country miserably cold; they have no use of Mony, but pay their Tribute to the King of Sweden in Skins and Furrs, of which they have great plenty, which they take in hunting. Towns here are very thin, if any, and those that are be on the Sea-shoar, and very poor, the Natives contenting themselves with Cabbins and Sheds.

• 2.109INGRIA, a small Province bordering upon Livonia, at the bottom of the Gulph of Finland, not many years taken from the Knez, or great Dukes of Mosco, by the Kings of Sweden; who have likewise robbed Germany of the best part of Pomerania, and Denmark of the Provinces of Schoven, Scania, Hallandia, Blekingea, Bahus, Gothland, Oesilia, Heroedalia, and Jemptia.

LIVONIA, bounded on the East with Moscovy, and on the West with the Baltick Sea; a Country extreamly Mountainous and Fenny, but yet so fertil, that it supplies with Corn the defects of other Countries. It is severed into the parts, of ESTEN and LETTEN, and these again into several other lesser parts, which are set down in the Geographical Table. Its chief places are Felin, Pernajo, Revel, Wiesenburg, Nerva, Wittenstein, and Derpt, a Town of good Trade. In the part of LETTEN, towards the West, are Riga, the See of an Archbishoprick, and is a place of a good Trade; Segenwold, Wenden, and Walmer. Towards the South are the Towns of Koekenhaus and Creutzburg; and towards the East the Town of Marienburg: All these Towns in the part of Letten are subject to the Crown of Poland.

• 2.110In Scandinavia, or the Estates of Denmark and Sweden, are many Rivers, amongst which, some are large, but not famous: The Lakes and Gulphs, which are in great number, obscure the Rivers, and make the commerce only on the Coast. The Rivers of Ʋma, Pitha, Luda, Torne, and Kimi, give their names to the Marshes of Laponia, subject to the King of Sweden.

The principal Mountains in Scandinavia are the Dofrine Hills, which is a vast and continual ridge of Mountains,* 2.111 which divide Sweden from Denmark.

The Spil of Sweden is so fruitful in many places, * 2.112 that it is a hard matter to see a Beggar, and the Air so pure and healthful, that it is ordinary to see men of 130 or 140 years of Age. * 2.113 The Country abounds in Mines of Copper, Lead, Brass, and Iron; also hath store of Ox-hides, Goats and Buck-skins, Tallow, Tarrs, rich Furrs, Alom, Hony, Malt, Barly, Wheat, Firrs, &c.

• 2.114The People are naturally strong, active, stout Souldiers, industrious, laborious and ingenious, especially in Mechanical Aris, very courteous to Strangers, &c. The Women are said to be discreet and modest. The Christian Faith was first planted amongst them by Ansgarius, Archbishop of Breme, the general Apostle of the North.

• 2.115The Revenue of the Crown of Swedeland must needs be great, there being three ways allowed him for the receiving it, viz. the Tenths out of all increase of Commodities, as well those of the growth as otherwise. Also by Customs upon all Goods exported and imported; and also the Revenue of the Church, which was seized on and incorporated to the Crown by Gustavus Ericus, our of which there is ye an allowance to the Bishops and Clergy. And besides these ways, he hath power of imposing Taxes in time of War, according to the emergency of the occasion.

In his Forces by Land or Sea he is very powerful, being able to put out to Sea about 100 Sail of Ships, and into the Field about 30 or 40000 Foot and Horse.

As to the deciding of Controversies, &c. every Territory hath its Viscount, every Province its Lamen, and every Parish its Lanasnan or Consul; and there lieth an Appeal from the Consul to the Viscount, and from the Viscount to the Lamen; from whom also Appeals lie to the Council, and from the Council of Estate to the King, who alone decideth the same.

1685. Geographia universalis: the present state of the whole world by Pierre Duval.

Of Sueden.

THe Monarchy of Sueden is the most ancient of Europe, if it be true that it has had above a hundred and fifty Kings; and that the first of 'em was the Son of Japhet, one of the Sons of Noah. Upon this foundation perhaps it was, that in the Council of Basle, a Bishop of Sueden demanded of the Presidents of the Assembly, the Precedence for his King over other Christian Princes. The most authentick Historians begin the enumeration of the Kings of Sueden at Biorno, who was Crowned towards the year eight hundred; and shew, that the Kingdome was Elective til the Reign of Gustavus de Vaga, who rendred it Hereditary in his Family in the year 1544. and who at the same time abolished there the Roman Catholick Religion to follow the Sect of Luther. This pretext of Religion did likewise very much serve his Son Charles the 9th. called of Sudermania, when he deprived his Nephew Sigismond of the Crown, who had been Elected King of Poland the third of that name; and whose Successors unto Casimir the third, did keep the Title of Sueden. The King of Sueden stiles himself King of the Suedes, of the Goths and Vandals, Great Prince of Finland, Duke of Schonen, Estonia, Livonia, Carelia, Bremen, Verden, Stein, Pomerania, Gassubia, Vandalia, Prince, and Lord of Ingria. He bears in his Arms three Crowns, which sometimes have been Contested with him by the Kings of Denmark; the present King is Charles the 11th. of the Palatine, House of Deux Ponts, or Twee-brugge. The Goths and Vandales are noted in History for their Conquests; the modern Suedes for the Valour of their late Kings, and for their acquisitions over their Neighbours, which render 'em very Potent on the Baltick Sea; where they have more Coasts than all the Princes together who confine upon it.

The Peace of Bromsbroo in the year 1645. obliges the King of Denmark to restore Jempterland and Herendal to Sueden; to yield to it the Isles of Gotland and of Oeland to perpetuity, with the Province of Halland for thirty years.

The Peace of Rotschil in the year 1658. does entirely cede to Sueden, Halland, Schonen, wherein Landscroon is become a very considerable Town, Bleking, wherein is the new Port of Carlscroon, the Isle of Bornholme, which is since returned to Denmark by the exchange of other Lands, the Fortress of Bahus, and the Bayliwick of Dronthem.

That of Copenhagen in the year 1660. confirms the Treaty of Roschild with reserve of the Bayliwick of Drontheim, and purchases the Isle of Ween.

The acquisitions of Sueden over the Empire by the Peace of Osnabrug are, the Dutchy of Pomerania Citerior: and in the Ulterior Stetin, Gartz, Dam, Golnau. The Isle and Principality of Rugen; the Isles and the Mouths of the Oder; the Dutchies of Bremen and of Verden; the City, the Seigniory and the Port of Wismar; Wildhusen in Westphalia; certain Customs in the Rest of Pomerania, and in the new Marquisate of Brandenbourg. The War declared in the year 1675, by the King of Denmark, and several Princes of the Empire, deprived Sueden of many of these acquisitions; which it was restored to by the Peace of Nimeguen in the year 1679.

The Treaty of Oliva in the year 1660. was so advantageous to Sueden, that the King of Poland did there make renunciation of the Title of King of Sueden for the future, reserving only to himself the Title during his life to other Princes; and likewise consented that Lifeland should henceforward be Hereditary to the Crown of Sueden. This is to be understood of Lifeland on the North of the Duna, where the only place of Dunembourg was reserved to the Crown of Poland, conformable to the Truce made at Stumsdorf for twenty six years, in the year 1635.

The Peace with the Muscovites procured restitution to Sueden of all the Grand Duke or Zar had taken in Lifeland.

The King of Sueden has lately very much augmented his Revenue, by the re-union to his Demesne of several Lands which had been Alienated from it. He pretends to the Succession of Gleves, and of Juliers, by the means of his great Grandfather John, Duke of Deux-Ponts, who married Magdelain the third Sister of the Duke of John William.

In the States of the Kingdom the Peasants make a Body, as well as the other Orders.

Sueden possesses part of Scandinavia, which is the best of it, as being towards the East. The Cold is somewhat long in this Country, often very sharp; to provide themselves against it, the Inhabitants do not make use of Furres as they do in Germany: they have only Night-Caps, Gloves of Wool, Waist-Coats, and make great Fires of the Fewel they have plenty of. They have so few sick People in their Countrey, that the Physitians and Apothecaries have hardly practice among 'em, whereas Barbers are there in great request. The Ministers and Officers of Justice do there keep Inns. The Inhabitants of this Province are all equally rich; their greatest Revenues consist in Mines of Copper, from whence most of the Europeans are furnish'd wherewith to make money, their Canons, and their Bells. The City of Stockholme alone has in its Castle above a hundred pieces of great Artillery; and there are held to be above eight Thousand in the Kingdom. In the review of the Militia which was made in the year 1661. there were reckoned above Fourscore Thousand Men in Arms.

This Countrey, being full of Woods and Mountains, affords very little Corn; in time of scarcity, the Poor eat often very bad Bread. It furnishes Butter, Suet, Hides, Skins, Pitch, Rosin, Masts, Posts and Planks. The Towns are subject to Fire, the Houses being only built of Wood. The Lakes and Gulphs are there more considerable than the Rivers. Trade being only drove upon the Coasts; neither dare the Ships venture upon that without a Pylot, by reason of the number of Rockswith which it is beset. The Ice is here so strong and firm in Winter, that when it is but two Inches thick, it is said to be able to bear a Man on Foot: Waggons go on it with safety when it is half a foot thick. The Snow does there afford the means of travelling in Sledges. The Horses in this Countrey are proper for War; they are very easily reared and rarely sick; they see as well almost by night as by day, they carry their man swimming, with ease they leap great Ditches; they have so much courage and agility, that they attack with their Feet and Teeth the Enemies of those who mount them.

Six great Regions are principally known under the name of Sueden; Gotia, Sueden, Lapland, Finland, Ingria, Lifeland; the three former towards the West, the three other towards the East, the Gulph of Finland between both, and besides these the modern acquisitions before specified.

Gotia is divided into Ostro-Gotia and Westro-Gotia, this last towards the Ocean, the former upon the Baltick Sea. According to the like division, the Goths who subdued Italy, were called Ostro-Goths, and those who rendred themselves Masters of Spain, Visi-Goths. Calmar is a strong Town, and the place where the Suedes until now, did embark for Germany. Its Cittadel was esteemed in the Northern Countreys as much as that of Milan in Italy; Norkoping has works and forges of Copper which afford the Europeans the conveniency of coming to load Cannon there. Lindkoping the Countrey of the Historian Olaus-Magnus is remarkable for the Victory of Charles of Sudermania, since King of Sueden. There be several Cities in these parts whose names be thus terminated in Koping, which signifies the places where the market is kept. Gottembourg a new Town, and has its Sea-Port upon the Ocean.

Sueden properly taken communicates its name to the other Provinces of this State. Stockholme is the Capital City of all the Kingdom, accompanied with a Royal Castle and a Sea-Port at the disgorging of the Lake of Meler, whereof was formerly the conjunction proposed with that of Wener, for the communicating the Ocean and Baltick Seas, and thus be exempted from the passage of the Sound. This Town is now better built, and much richer than it was before the War of the Suedes in Germany. In the year 1641. they began to make the Streets in Right Lines, and to build their Houses of one and the same Structure. It is a safe Harbour for Ships, which may ride there in security without Anchor. There be three Channels which lead thither between several Isles and Rocks. The Kings Ships remain at Elsnappen. The Country round about is beautify'd with several fine Houses, which the Soveraigns and most of the Senators have caus'd to be built. Upsal, accompanied with a great Castle, is the Metropolitan, and formerly the place of the Coronation of their Kings, whose abode it formerly was. When in Sueden were several Kingdoms, that of Upsal was ever the most considerable of 'em This City has an University, and the most renowned Fairs of all those parts. Its principall Church was a stately Building and is said to have been embelish'd and wainscoted with Gold, now it is covered with Copper.

Lapland has no Towns, only some Habitations divided into five Countries, which bear the name of their Rivers. The Laplanders are very low of Stature, the tallest among them not exceeding four Foot in height. They have no other Cloaths than of Skins; and when they are young, they are so hardned to the cold, that they afterwards undergo it with ease, when without habilliments. They have neither Wool, nor Flax, nor Hemp; they have blades of Copper which they call Cipons, which they exchange for what they stand in need of: they have neither Bread, nor Corn, nor Fruits, nor Herbs, nor Wines, nor Beer, nor Cattle, nor Eggs, nor Milk, nor any other Commodity; but they do not want Water: and they have Rain-Deers; which are a kind of a Stag extraordinary swift, whose flesh is their Food: and whom they also make use of in their Travels. The great and swift Journies they go by their means, having given occasion to the believing them Witches. But to proceed, there is one part of Lapland belonging to the Crown of Denmark, and another to the Muscovite. Mount Enarby has three Lodges for the Deputies of the three Nations, and there the Suedes administer Instice.

Finland is a Dutchy which some Kings of Sueden have given for Appanage for their Brothers. The principal Towns are Abbo and Nibourg. There is in this Province a place near Ratzebourg, where Needles toucht with the Loadstone are said to turn continually.

Ingria was taken from the Muscovites by a Treaty in the Year 1617. It is small, but considerable for the hunting of Elks and for the Scituation of the Fortress of Notebourg in the midst of a great River, and at the disgorging of the Lake Ladoga. This Fortress was taken miraculously by the Suede, all the Muscovite Garrison, except two Persons, having been swept away by a Disease which took them in the Mouth, and hindred them from eating.

Lifeland was ceded entirely by Poland, as we have said, except Dunembourg. It was formerly the order of the Knights Sword-Bearers; but under Pope Gregory the 9th this Order was united to that of the Teutons, or Cross-Bearers. The Polanders and Muscovites had it afterwards in possession. The Dutchy of Courland, has its Duke of the Family of Ketler, who does Homage to Poland. It is a remnant of the great Mastership of the above mentioned order. Riga is the Capital Town of Lifeland. The Germans, English and Hollanders, trade much to that Town in Summer-time, while the Sea is navigable. In the Winter its Inhabitants traffick into Muscovy by means of their t•aineaux. It is in a Plain upon the River de Dune, which in that place is a quarter of a League in breadth: Its Fortifications consist in six regular Bastions, in several half Moons freezed, and in Counterscarps pallisadoed. The Dune has so rapid a Stream and often whirles along so much Ice, that it sometimes changes its course from Riga as far as Dunemund. In the Year 1656. I saw an Army of an hundred thousand Muscovites wast and moulder away before that Town, which gloriously repulsed their efforts. Revel has the Direction of the Commerce from Lifeland unto Muscovy. Nerva is a strong place which bestows its Name upon a neighbouring River, wherein the brave Pontus de la Gardie was drowned, after Sueden was obliged to him for many of its best Conquests. By the late Treaties between the Crowns of Sueden and of Poland, the exercise of both the Catholique and Protestant Religion is allowed of in Lifeland, as well as in Curland and Prussia.

The Isle of Gotland, the greatest of the Isles of the Baltick Sea, accompanied with five or six Havens, belongs to the Crown of Sueden. Several of its Rocks have ancient Gothick Characters. Its City of Wisby still preserves Marbles and Houses which have Doors of Iron and Brass, either washt with Silver, or guilt with Gold; which speaks its ancient Grandure. This Town did formerly establish Laws for the Navigation of the Baltick Sea, and gave beginning to Sea Maps.

1638. The merchants mappe of commerce wherein by Lewes Roberts.

Swethland is bounded on the East with Moscovia, on the West with the Dosrine Hills, on the North with the Frozen Seas, and on the South with the Baltick Seas.

The Commodities that this Country affordeth for Merchandize, are Lead, Copper, and Silver, drawn out of their Mines, and it aboundeth also with Hides of Bucks, Goats and Oxen, Tallow, Tar, Malt, Barly, Rich Furs, and the like.

It containeth five Provinces, Lappia, Bodia, Finland, Gothland and Sweden; of all which a word.

In Lappia I find not any City of note, being cold and comfortless.

In Bodia are the Towns of Vireis and Helsinga.

In Finland are many strong Towns, populous and rich, Albo and Narve, both of great Strength; also those two strong Cities of Veburg and Ruiallia, which cost the Swebes 100000 Crowns yearly the keeping, by nature defending his own, and offending his Enemies Territories.

In Gothland stands the chief City of this Kingdom, Stockholm, seated in the Waters, after the manner of Venice, and the Residence of the Swedish King; next Lodusia, a Town of great Traffick; then Waldburg and Colmar, two impregnable Cities.

In Sweden are the chief Cities of Upsal a Bishoprick, Nicopea a Sea-town of good Strength, and Copperdole, most famous for its abundance of Brass, which is here in such plenty, that there are found 400 Brass Pieces in the Castle of Stockholm; under which I will comprehend the Trade of Sweden.

1695. Thesaurus geographicus a new body of geography by Abel Swall and Tim. Child.

SWEDEN, Suecia.

SWEDEN, or SWEDELAND, call'd by the Inhabitants Swerie, Sweriesrick, and Swedenrick, is a Kingdom of a vast extent, but very little inhabited, bordering on Moscovy, Poland and Norway, being a Marshy Country, water'd with many Rivers, and almost every where beset with Lakes, Woods and Mountains. It is bounded on the North by the Danish and Moscovitish Lapland; on the South by part of Moscovy, Poland and the Baltick Sea; on the East likewise by Moscovy, and on the West by the Sea which separates it from Denmark; the River of Glama and a Ridge of Mountains, nam'd the Doffrin, serving for the limits between the Territories of this State and those of Norway. Its utmost extent from the 55 deg. 30 min. to the 68 deg. 30 min. of Latitude, as also from the 31 deg. to the 62 deg. 30 min. of Longitude contains 1000 Italian Miles in length, that is to say, from Stockholm to the Confines of Lapland, and the space of 20 days Journey on Horseback in breadth, so that the whole Continent with all its dependences, is suppos'd to be 900 Miles larger than France and Italy put together. The Air is every where so free from Vapours, pure and healthful, (except in those places that lie near the Seas, Lakes and Marshes) that notwithstanding its excessive Coldness, the Inhabitants frequently live 120 or 130 Years, and some of them have been known to attain even to the Age of 200, unless the term of their Lives be shortned by Intemperance, or any unfortunate Accident.

The SOIL of the Country in most parts of Sweden is generally more fruitful than that of the other Northern Kingdoms, affording good store of Wheat, Rye, Barly, Oats, &c. In the Woods, Forests and Pastures, are bred all sorts of Beasts, as Horses, Elks, Bears, wild Bulls, Beavers, Sables, Ermins, Martrons, &c. besides Sheep and Oxen, not only sufficient for the Natives, but also for Transportation, particularly out of Finland, Schonen, &c. into other foreign Nations. But the manner of cultivating the Earth in most places is extraordinary; for the use of the Plough is unknown to these Husband-men, and there are scarce any Champion Grounds to be Tilled, Fire alone being capable to render the Rocks and Mountains fertile. Thus having burnt whole Forests, they sow Seed-Corn mingled with Earth on the Ashes, and without any more pains reap a plentiful Crop within the space of two Years. In the Southern parts of Westrogothia, the Land is so rich, that Barley is reap'd 36 days after it has been sown. Honey abounds very much in these parts, not only preserv'd in Gardens, but ordinarily to be found in the Woods. There are also many Mines of Copper, Iron, Lead, and some few of Silver. Between Jenecoping and Elsimburg, in passing thro' Almstadt, we meet with an admirable Forest, stretch'd forth 30 Leagues in length, where the Trees in the midst almost of a continual Frost grow up to a prodigious height, and retain their Verdure throughout the whole Year, notwithstanding the intolerable Sharpness of the Winter-Season.

The most remarkable LAKES, which are numerous and very large, are 1. Meller in Ʋpland, well stockt with Salmon, Pike, and other sorts of Fish, and so hard frozen in Winter, that Markets and Fairs are often kept upon it: 2. Hielmar in Nericia: 3. Sitian in Dalecarlia: 4. Vener in Westrogothia, which is 130 English Miles long and 40 broad, containing a great number of Islands, and receiving the Waters of 24 Rivers, that take their rise from the Norwegian Mountains, and discharge themselves into this Gulph; but they have onl• one common passage out, which is commonly call'd Tralhetta, i. e. the Devil's-Cap, and lies towards the South: 5. Veter, in the same Province, the Waters whereof are so calm and transparent, that one may discern the bottom at a very great depth. On the banks of this Lake were heretofore founded the Monasteries of St. Bridget, the Patroness of this Kingdom, and of St. Catharine her Daughter, together with several other noble Structures: 6. Ʋlatraesch in Cajania: 7. Pejenda in Tavastia: 8. Ladoga: 9. Onega. The two last are situated on the Frontiers of Moscovy, and the Czar or Grand Duke has yeilded up the greater part of them by a Treaty of Peace to the Crown of Sweden. From these Lakes spring many Rivers, among which the most Navigable is, 1. Dalecarle, whose Head is in the Dofrine Mountains, from whence it runs into Dalecarlia, receives several Rivulets at Torsang, and having separated the Provinces of Ʋpland and Gestricia, at last falls into the Bothnick Bay. 2. Saga or Sawe, which divides Ʋpland from Westmannia. 3. Angermany, that waters the Province of the same name, and is famous for abundance of Salmon; besides five considerable Rivers in Lapland, and others of lesser note.

The Swedes, who may justly be reckon'd among the most polite and civiliz'd People of the Northern Countries; as to the Constitution of their Bodies, are generally tall, robust, of a comely Presence and gentile Carriage. They are also free in Conversation, Upright and Just in their Dealings, Affable to Strangers, ingenious and skilful in divers sorts of Arts, as well Military as Civil. The Gentry in their Youth apply themselves to the study of Liberal Sciences, more especially the Languages, and frequently travel into foreign Countries; and in their riper years are employ'd either in the affairs of State or War. The Common People are industrious, so that a Beggar is scarce to be seen among them, and prove very good Soldiers, ready to signalize their Valour on all occaons; but their Hospitality among other Virtues is chiefly Conspicuous, having been anciently accustomed to treat Strangers, Travellers and Passengers, with the same civility as Friends, for they often supply'd them with Victuals and other Necessaries gratis, and took care to provide Horses for their Journey. Indeed the Priests and Curates in the Country are still oblig'd to observe the like Custom. On the contrary, Churlishness and Inhospitality was accounted so heinous a Crime, that King Charles II. who is said to have reign'd sometime before our Saviour's Nativity, was wont to send Officers to set fire on the Houses of those Persons that had thrice deny'd Lodging to any Stranger. The Swedish Women are in like manner of a tall Stature, Beautiful, Modest, Chaste, and endow'd with other Qualifications commendable in their Sex. Adultery is very seldom committed by them, and prohibited by the Laws under severe Penalties. The Citizens Wives especially affect to go neat, and to dwell in fair Houses. The Common People wear course Woollen Cloath, but the Nobility and Gentry have divers sorts of Apparel, according to the Modern Modes of France, and other European Countries. Their Language differs only in Dialect from the Danish and High-Dutch, being rougher and less capable of Improvement than either of these, so that the Swedes seldom write any thing in their own Vulgar Tongue.

The Kingdom of Sweden was heretofore Elective, until Gustavus I. after having expell'd the Danes, made it Hereditary in his Family, A. D. 1544, and at the same time abolish'd the Roman Catholick Religion, introducing the Lutheran throughout his Dominions. Afterward Sigismund I. elected also King of Poland, the Grand-Son of the same Gustavus, was depos'd for adhering to the Interest of the Romanists, and his Uncle Charles Duke of Sudermania took Possession of the Throne. He was succeeded by his Son that most Valiant and Renowned Prince Gustavus Adolphus, who undertaking an Expedition into Germany, to assist the Protestants, over-run a great part of the Empire, and was at last slain in the Battel of Lutzen, leaving the Crown to his only Daughter Christina; but this Princess having turn'd Roman Catholick, resign'd it to her Cosin Charles Gustavus Duke of Deux-Ponts, the Father of Charles XI. the present Monarch, a Warlike and Vertuous Prince, who is usually styl'd, King of the Swedes, Goths and Vandals, Grand Prince of Finland, Duke of Estonia and Carelia, Lord of Ingria, &c. being also Sovereign of many other large Territories: For by virtue of a Treaty of Peace concluded at Bromsbroo, A. D. 1645, the King of Denmark was oblig'd to restore to Sweden, Jempterland and Heendal, and to surrender the Isles of Gothland and Oesel for ever, together with the Province of Halland, during the term of 30 Years. By another Treaty at Roschild, in 1658, the same King entirely renounc'd his Right to Halland, Schonen, Bleking, the Island of Bornholm, the Fortress of Bahus, and the Bailliage of Drontheim. By that of Munster, Sweden, obtain'd the hither Pomerania; and in the farther, Stetin, Gartz, Dam, and Golnaw, the Island and Principality of Rugen; the Isles and Mouths of the River Oder; the Town, Lordship and Port of Wismar; the Dutchies of Bremen and Ferden, together with Wildhusen in Westphalia; as also the Reversion of the rest of Pomerania, and the new Marquisate of Brandenburg. By the Treaty of Oliva ratify'd with Poland, in 1660. Livonia became Hereditary to the Crown of Sweden, which ought to be understood of that part only that lies to the North of the River Duina. By a Treaty made with the Moscovites, all the Conquests of the Grand Duke in Livonia, were resign'd to the King of Sweden. Moreover this Prince lays claim to the Dutchies of Cleves and Juliers, by a Title deriv'd from his Great Grand-father John Duke of Deux-Ponts, who had marry'd Magdalen III. the Sister of Duke William.

The REVENUES of the King of Sweden consist chiefly in the Crown-Lands, as Chaces, Forests, &c. which he takes an Oath at his Coronation not to imbezil or alienate; besides those that arise from the Mines of Copper, Silver, Lead, &c. from the Sea-Customs; from the Imposition upon Oxen transported out of Schonen, Finland, &c. the value of five Shillings Sterling being paid for every Head; from the several Companies of Merchants who remit yearly considerable Sums to the Crown; from an Impost on the Exportation of Guns; from the Fines of those Persons that are cast in Law, a third part whereof is paid to the King; and from many other ways of raising Mony, by which means the Royal Exchequer is very much enlarged, so that the ordinary Income, in the Year 1578, (as they say) amounted to six or seven Tuns of Gold of 100000 Dollars apiece, all Charges of the Crown being first deducted. The States, or distinct Orders in this Realm, are six in number, viz. the Princes of the Blood Royal, Nobility, Clergy, Soldiery, Merchantry and Commonalty. The King's eldest Son is Heir apparent to the Crown, and the younger are commonly created Dukes, being invested with the Government of Provinces, and having a Right to succeed in the Throne if the elder dye without issue. The Nobility are distinguish'd with the Title of Dukes, Earls and Barons, enjoying very great Privileges and Immunities. Ecclesiastical Affairs are transacted here as in England, by Bishops, Priests and Deacons, but these Prelates have not so large Revenues, nor so great authority over the inferiour Clergy. However the Arch-Bishop of Ʋpsal is reputed the chief Person next the King himself, and accordingly takes place of all the Temporal Lords, having under him seven Suffragans, viz. the Bishops of Lyncopen, Scaren, Stergnes, Westeras, Wexio, Aboa and Riga, and divers Superintendents, who exercise Episcopal Functions, viz. those of Calmar, Gottemburg, Marienstadt, Revel, &c. All these constitute an Ecclesiastical College, call'd the Supreme Consistory of the Kingdom, wherein the Arch-Bishop always presides. The Land Forces are provided and exercis'd much after the same manner as our Trained-Bands, in the several Provinces, consisting in all of 32 Regiments, every one of which contains 700 Men; neither are the Sea Forces less considerable, for there are commonly in a Readiness 50 Men of War, many of which carry 50 Guns, under the Command of one High-Admiral, and sometimes above 300 Ships lie at Anchor in the Port of Stockholm. Indeed the Soldiery is much encouraged, and have divers great Privileges, for a Soldier as soon as listed has all his Lands Tax-free, besides his ordinary Pay; if his Horse be kill'd in Battel, the King furnishes him with another; if any are taken Prisoners by the Enemy, they are redeem'd at his Majesty's proper Charges, &c. The Merchants, in whose hands is kept the greatest part of the Riches of the Kingdom, have in like manner their peculiar Immunities, every Maritime City and Mart-Town, being govern'd by particular Municipal Laws. The last and lowest State is the Commonalty call'd Bond or Beond, of these there are two sorts, viz. the Scatbonders, who possess Hereditary Lands, and are bound in time of War to provide a Horse and Man for the King's Service, and the Bergsmen that labour in the Mines, and are no less profitable to the Common-wealth than the former. These also may purchase Estates and Fishery of their own, and as the Commons of England, send their Representatives to the Senate or Publick Council of the Kingdom, which is conven'd for the same Reasons, and in the same manner as our Parliament. But every Order sits in a distinct House, and every House has a Chair-man or Speaker, viz. for the Nobility the Grand Marshal, for the Clergy the Arch-Bishop, for the Burgesses of Cities, one of the Consuls of Stockholm, or the Master of the Ordnance, and for those of the Country, one chosen out of their own Body.

The Administration of JUSTICE in Sweden, is perform'd in five several Courts, where Cognizance is taken of all Affairs both Civil and Criminal. The first of these is the King's Chamber, in which all Cases are decided between one Senator and another, or between Noble-men and publick Officers; as also all Actions brought thither from Inferiour Courts. 2. The Court Martial, wherein all matters are determin'd that relate to War, the Grand Marshal of the Army being always President, and having two Assessors Senators of the Kingdom, or Officers of the State. 3. The Court of Chancery, where all Mandates, Edicts, Commissions, &c. are made in the King's Name. The Chancellor of the Kingdom presides in this Court, assisted by four Senators Assessors, and the two Secretaries of State. 4. The Court of Admiralty for the transacting of all Business relating to Maritime Affairs. Here the High-Admiral presides, attended with four Vice-Admirals, as many Senators and several Captains Assessors. 5. The Court of the Exchequer, wherein all matters are dispatch'd belonging to the King's Revenue, and Suits are determin'd in which the Crown is any way concern'd. The Grand Treasurer sits here as Supreme Judge, and has four Assessors, viz. two Senators and two Noble-men. Besides these, there are other inferiour Tribunals, which Gustavus Adolphus first erected in some of the chief Critics, in the Years 1614 and 1615. The whole Kingdom is usually divided into seven principal parts, viz. Sweden strictly so called, Gothland, Lapland, Finland, Livonia, or Liefland, Ingria, or Ingermeland, and Pomerania, which last has been already describ'd among the Territories of Germany.

SWEDEN, Suecia aut Sueonia, properly so called, lies to the North of Gothland, and to the South of Swedish Lapland, between Norway to the West, and the Gulph of Bothnia to the East. This Country (which, according to the opinion of Joannes Magnus, takes its name from Swenno the Son of Magog, and Grand-child of Noah) comprehends 11 Provinces, and is extended from North to South, about 100 Leagues, and 90 from East to West. It is fruitful in Corn, which is sow'd in the beginning of May, and reap'd about the end of August; but some parts are Mountainous and Woody, abounding with rich Mines, and affording much variety of Game. There is also good store of Fish, and all sorts of necessary Provisions. The Christian Religion was first planted in these parts, A. C. 780, by Herebertus sir-nam'd Belga, whom the Emperor Charles the Great had sent thither at the request of Bero or Biorno III. King of Sweden. It was also propagated by Ansgar a Monk of Corbey, afterward Bishop of Bremen, whom the Emperor Lewis the Godly deputed among others for that purpose, but it was not establish'd until about A. C. 955, when Ethelred King of England dispatch'd over Sigfrid Arch-Bishop of Canterbury, with divers other pious Priests, upon the Sollicitation of Olaus Scotkonung, who was baptiz'd himself, and caus'd Christian Churches to be built in every Province of his Dominions.

Sweden properly so call'd, divided into Eleven Provinces.

• 1. Upland, in which are these Towns, &c. viz.
  • Stockholm, Cap.
  • Ʋpsal, Arch-Bish.
  • ...Sigtun.
  • ...Encoping.
  • ...Ore-grund.
• 2. Sudermania, wherein are,
  • Nicoping, Cap.
  • Strergnes, Bish.
  • ...Torsilia.
  • ...Telga.
  • ...Trosa.
• 3. Westmania, in which are,
  • Westeras, Bish. Cap.
  • ...Kaeping.
  • ...Arboga.
  • ...Bisberg.
  • ...Bolshit.
• 4. Nericia, in which are,
  • Gevalia, Cap.
  • ...Folker.
  • ...Hamarang.
  • ...Shogskirk.
  • ...Coperberg.
• 5. Gestricia, in which are,
  • Oerebro, Cap.
  • ...Karelskog.
  • ...Linnesberg.
• 6. Helsingia, in which are,
  • Dilsbo, Cap.
  • ...Alta.
  • ...Jersso.
• 7. Dalecarlia, in which are,
  • Idra, Cap.
  • ...Ventan.
  • ...Ierna.
  • ...Lima.
• 8. Angermania, in which are,
  • Nortmaling, Cap.
  • ...Nore.
  • ...Torsaker.
  • ...Arnes.
• 9. Medelpadia, in which are,
  • Indel, Cap.
  • ...Essund.
  • ...Tuna.
  • ...Selangar,
• 10. Bothnia, wherein are,
  • Torn, Cap.
  • ...Kimi.
  • ...Lula.
  • ...Pitha.
  • ...Ʋma.
• 11. Jemptia, in which are,
  • Kessund, Cap.
  • ...Lidh.

The Province of ƲPLAND is so call'd from its Situation, or (as some say) from King Ʋbbo, who reign'd hereabouts, being bounded on the East by the Baltick Sea, on the West and North by the Rivers Save and Dalecarle, and on the South by the Lake Meller. It affords great plenty of Corn, and has some Mines of Lead, Iron and Silver. It may be perhaps worth the while to observe, that this Province only (as the Counties in England) is divided into several Hundreds, as Erling Hundrat, &c. whereas the Divisions of all the others are termed Harodh, Har signifying an Army, and Odh a Possession.

STOCKHOLM, Holmia aut Stocholmia, the Metropolis of the whole Kingdom of Sweden, is seated in the Province of Ʋpland, on the Frontiers of Sudermania, in the Latitude of 59 deg. 15 min. and the Longitude of 40 deg. 12 min. and encompass'd on all sides, especially that toward the Sea, with steep craggy Rocks call'd Scheren, as also with high Mountains and Lakes, which render its Prospect somewhat odd. It was heretofore a place of little note, first founded by King Birgerus, A. D. 1261, and took its name from the great quantity of Timber us'd in the building of it, Stock denoting Wood, and Holm an Island. In 1407 it was consum'd by Lightning, and some thousands of People perish'd in the Conflagration. In 1529, divers principal Burghers and Merchants of other Towns were invited to dwell here by King Gustavus I. most of the Inhabitants having been expell'd from hence by the tyrannical Oppression of Christian II. King of Denmark. In 1552, a Fire happen'd, and by reason of the Wooden Houses, burnt down the greater part of the Town. But it was soon re-built by the King's special Command, upon Piles, partly with Stone and partly with Brick, so that it has been for two Ages the Royal Seat of the Swedish Monarchs, and a very famous Mart. Its Haven, at the Mouth of the Lake Meller, is one of the most commodious in Europe, in regard that Vessels of the largest size may lie safe therein, even close to the Walls of the private Houses, and remain secure without the help of Anchors or Cables from any violent Tempests, or the attacks of Enemies, its Entrance being defended by strong Forts. Indeed this is the most considerable place of Trade in the whole Nation, from whence are exported great quantities of Deal-boards, Copper, Iron, Steel, Lead, and many Manufactures made with those Materials.

This City consists of six small Islands and two Suburbs, viz. the Northern and Southern; the Isles are Stockholm, Riddersholm, Konungsholm, Heglandesholm, Schipsholm and Ladduggarsland. These Islands are joyn'd together by several large Bridges, and in the first of them, which is properly call'd the City, stands the Palace of Kiddarchuset, where the General Assemblies of the States are conven'd in a Hall, adorned with the Coats of Arms of the Provinces and Nobility of the whole Kingdom. The Streets were formerly narrow and full of Windings, but have been much enlarg'd and improv'd since the Year 1641. In the same Isle of Stockholm is the grand Market-place, and the Citadel or Castle, which is divided into three parts by so many spacious Courts, including the Royal Palace, in some parts eight or nine Stories high; a magnificent Church dedicated to St. Nicholas, which owes its Foundation to King John, being erected upon Marble Pillars and cover'd with Copper; and the King's private Chappel, which is in like manner very large, and has 40 Windows on each side, where at the High-Altar (as they say) is to be seen an Image of our Saviour in full Proportion, consisting entirely of Massive Silver. There are also many other stately Apartments in the Castle, besides those of the King and Queen, as the Senate-House, the Court of Chancery, the College of Execution, the round Tower called Trekronor, from the three Crowns of Copper gilt set on the Top of it, representing the Arms of Sweden, and a famous Library enrich'd with a great number of choice Manuscripts and Figures to the waste of Heathen Gods, Emperors, Kings, &c. Riddersholm, or the Knights-Isle, is beautified with many pleasant Gardens, and the Church that bears the name of the Closterkirk, which formerly belong'd to the Cordeliers, and wherein are interr'd the two last Kings of Sweden, viz. Gustavus Adolphus, sir-nam'd the Great, and Carolus Gustavus, sir-nam'd Augustus. Heglandesholm, or Holy-Land-Isle, is inhabited chiefly by Artificers and Handicrafts-men, being united by a Wooden Bridge to the Isle of Stockholm, and by another to the North Suburbs. Schipsholm, or the Isle of Ships, is more especially remarkable for the Court of Admiralty, Arsenal, and other Magazines of Naval Stores. Ladduggarsland, or the Land of Country-Houses and Farms, is so named as being the station of the King's Dairy, Aviaries and Warren; besides a great number of Gardens, Walks and Houses of Pleasure, that serve for the diversion of the common People. The North Suburbs adjoyn thereto by the Communication of a Timber-Bridge, and are beset with the Royal Gardens, and Houses of Mechanick Tradesmen. In the Southern Suburbs the Merchants drive a great Trade in Commodities brought out of Moscovy, a stately Exchange having been lately built there for their Convenience, and indeed the City of Stockholm receives very great Advantages from its Situation near the Baltick Sea, from whence it is distant only seven Swedish Miles to the West, as also nine South of Ʋpsal, 55 North of Calmar, 66 East of Gotheburg, 70 North-East of Copenhagen, 75 of Dantzick, and about 120 South-East of Drontheim.

ƲPSAL, Ʋpsalia aut Ʋpsala, stands in like manner in the Province of Ʋpland, and on the banks of the River Sall or Sale, from whence its name is derived, or (according to the opinion of others) from Ʋbbo King of Sweden, who founded it about the Year 240, after the Universal Deluge, being distant 30 Miles, or seven Swedish Leagues from Stockholm to the North, and six of the like measure from Arosen or Westeras. It was heretofore the Capital City of the Kingdom of the Goths, and the usual place of Residence of their Princes, as also some time of the Swedish Monarchs, who were at first styl'd Kings of Ʋpsal. It is also the only Metropolitan See of Sweden, establish'd by Pope Eugenius III. A. D. 1148, and includes seven Suffragan Bishopricks within its Jurisdiction. The Cathedral Church (as are most of the chief Buildings in these parts) is cover'd with Copper and adorn'd with a Clock of admirable Workmanship. Ericus, sir-nam'd the Saint, is said to lye bury'd here in a Golden Coffin. A sumptuous Tomb is likewise erected in the same Church for Gustavus Adolphus with the History of his Life engrav'd in large Golden Characters, besides divers magnificent Monuments of some other Princes. Here is also the only University of the whole Kingdom, begun at first (as some say) under Ericus XI. by a College of four Professors, or as Loccenius informs us, in 1306, under one Andreas President of the said College, who entertain'd at his Table a certain number of Choristers and poor Scholars to assist him in the celebrating of Divine Service. However, in 1476, in the time of Steno Sture, senior, Pope Sixtus IV. confer'd on it the same Privileges with Bononia in Italy, and it was afterward endow'd with several Immunities and large Revenues by Charles IX. and his Son Gustavus Adolphus. The City is defended only by one Castle, built after the modern method of Fortification, on a Hill not far distant, which overlooks and commands the whole Town. In the Royal Palace of the same City Queen Christina Abdicated the Crown of Sweden, and recommended it to her Cosin Charles Gustavus, A. D. 1654.

CALMAR, Calmaria, was so called (as it is reported) by the Germans from the Coldness of the Air that comes off the Baltick Sea, and has a very convenient Harbour, much frequented by Merchants of divers Nations, giving its name to the Channel of Calmarsund that lies between it and the Isle of Gotland. It is regularly fortify'd, and the Citadel much esteem'd in these Northern parts. It was also sometime dignify'd with a Bishop's See; for in the Year 1230, Eric King of Denmark, Norway and Sweden, instituted 13 Prebendaries, and ordain'd that the Cathedral Church should have the Privileges of an Ecclesiastical College. But it is now govern'd by a Superintendent, who with the Bishops has a place in the Publick Consistory of the Kingdom. Calmar was heretofore in the Possession of John King of Denmark, and of Christian II. his Successor, but not long after recover'd by the Swedes. In 1611, Christian IV. King of Denmark, storm'd the same place, putting all the Inhabitants to the Sword; but two Years after it was restor'd to the Swedish Monarchs, by vertue of a Treaty of Peace ratify'd between the two Northern Crowns. In 1647, it was almost entirely burnt down, not above 60 Houses being left standing; but it has been since well re-built, and is at present a Town of a considerable Trade, as also the usual place from whence the Swedes embark for Germany.

LƲNDEN, Lundis aut Londinum Scanorum, the Metropolis of the Province of Schonen, stands eight German Miles from Copenhagen to the East, and six from Landskroon to the South-West. Ever since the Year 1109 it has been the See of an Arch-Bishop, who had six Suffragan Bishops under his Jurisdiction, and a Vote in the General Diets of the Empire. But the Swedes took Possession of this City in 1658, and open'd an University there Ten Years after; so that at present it is only an Episcopal See, the Arch-Bishoprick having been translated to Copenhagen, in 1660. There are (as they say) 22 Churches within the Walls; but the Cathedral dedicated to St. Laurence, is a magnificent Structure, very remarkable for its high Steeple, serving as a Land-mark to direct the Course of Sailers, and its large Vault under the Quire; as also for the Dial, which shews the Year, Month, Day, and Hour of the Day, at the same time; together with all Festivals fixt and moveable, the Motion of the Sun and Moon, and their Progress thro' the Zodiack. This Clock, suppos'd to be the Work of Caspar Bartholinus the famous Mathematician, is so order'd by artificial Engines, that upon its Movement two Horse-men come forth and Encounter each other, giving just so many blows as the Hammer is to strike upon the Bell; then a Door opening, the Virgin Mary appears sitting on a Throne with Christ in her Arms, the Magi or Wise Men doing him Reverence, and two Trumpeters sounding all the while. The Altar of the same Church is likewise an admirable piece of Workmanship, adorn'd on the fore-part with the Images of King Frederick II. and Queen Sophia, and upon the Table-stone with those of our Saviour and the Twelve Apostles at his last Supper.

GOTHLAND, Gothia, that is to say the Country of the Goths, who by their Valour in the Fourth Century, first broke the force of the Roman Empire; is bounded on the North by Sweden, strictly so called; on the West by Norway, and on the South and East by the Baltick Sea; extending it self from North to South for the space of about 100 Leagues, and 60 from East to West. It is divided into three parts by the Lake of Veter or Wetter, viz. Sudgothland, Ostrogothland, and Westrogothland, i. e. Southern, Eastern and Western Gothland. South-Gothland comprehends four small Countries, viz. Halland, Bleking, Schonen and Smaland, which are discover'd in Sailing from North to South-East on the Coasts of the Baltick Sea. Afterward returning to the North-West we meet with Westrogothland, wherein are contain'd three Districts, viz. Westrogothland properly so called, Dalia and Wermeland, situated between the Sea, Halland and the Lakes of Veter and Vener. Lastly, Ostrogothland lies between the Sea and the Lake Wetter, as it may be more distinctly perceiv'd in the following Table, together with the principal Towns of every Province.

Gothland divided into Three Parts, viz.

• 1. South-Gothland, in which are included four small Provinces.
  • 1. Halland, in which are these Towns, viz.
    • Halmstadt, Cap.
    • ...Limberg.
    • ...Laaholm.
    • ...Falkemburg.
    • ...Waersburg.
  • 2. Smaland, wherein are,
    • Calmar, Cap.
    • Wexioe, Bish.
    • ...Alem.
    • ...Ekesioe.
    • ...Jenekaeping.
    • ...Westerbiik.
  • 3. Bleking, in which are,
    • Christianstadt, Cap.
    • ...Rotemby.
    • ...Ʋstel.
    • ...Christianopel.
    • ...Selsburg.
    • ...Trelburg.
    • ...Eleholm.
  • 4. Schonen, in which are,
    • Lunden, Bish. Cap.
    • ...Malmoe.
    • ...Engelholm.
    • ...Landskron.
    • ...Elsimburg.

• 2. Westrogothia, in Three.
  • 1. Westrogothland, properly so called, in which are these Towns,
    • Gothburg, or Gottenburg, Cap.
    • ...Falekaeping.
    • ...Hio.
    • ...Bogesund.
    • Scaren, Bish.
    • ...Mariestadt.
    • ...Bret.
    • ...Fidekaeping.
  • 2. Dalia, in which are,
    • Daleburg. Cap.
    • ...Twosa.
    • ...Milleswick.
    • ...Holm.
    • ...Killen.
  • 3. Wermeland, in which are,
    • Carolstadt, Cap.
    • ...Kila.
    • ...Rada.
    • ...Liswick.
    • ...Kallen.
  • 4. Ostrogothia, in which are these Towns, viz.
    • ...Nortkaeping.
    • ...Norby.
    • ...Wadstein.
    • ...Schening.
    • Lindkaeping, Bish.
    • ...Sunderkaeping.

SWEDISH LAPLAND, Lapponia Suecica; the most Northern Province of this Kingdom, is bounded on the North by Norwegian Lapland, on the South by Jempterland, Angermenia, Bothnia and Finland, on the East by Moscovitish Lapland, and on the West by the Mountains of Daarefield, which separate it from Norway. Its utmost extent from North to South consists of about 60 Leagues, and 164 from East to West. The Inhabitants being for the most Idolaters, are of a very small Stature, yet very nimble and robust, but withal cowardly, mean spirited, revengeful and desperate. They are extremely addicted to Witchcraft and Magical Arts, which are exercis'd by them after several manners, as by a kind of Drum, Knots, Javelins, Imprecations, Spells, &c. They are accustomed to the enduring of Cold by walking naked, and their Cloths consist only of the Skins of Wild-Beasts that are taken by them. They carry their Huts along with them, which resemble the Tents of a Camp, and have very few inclosed Towns. It is also reported that they are almost altogether destitute of Wool, Corn, Fruits, and domestick Cattel; the Elks serving them for Food, Cloaths and Horses, which Beasts are a kind of Stags that run with extreme swiftness. The chief Employment of these Laplanders is Hunting, to which purpose they make use of divers sorts of Instruments, as Spears headed with Fish-bones, Nets, and of late, Guns. They are very expert in sliding on the Snow and Ice in their Skaits, call'd Skider, or Skidh, so that they can travel even 150 English Miles in a Day, and the Women are no less nimble footed, tho' never allow'd to go a Hunting. They have also certain Sledges made in form of a small Boat, which are drawn by Elks or Rain-Dear, and easily pass over the deepest Snows. Their Ingenuity likewise appears in contriving their Boats, the Boards whereof are not joyn'd with Boards, but fasten'd together with Ropes made of the pliant Roots of Trees, or the Sinews of the Rain-Deer dry'd in the Wind or Sun. These Barks are row'd with two or four Oars, and driven along the most rapid Rivers; neither is their Art of Wiredrawing much us'd among them for adorning of their Boots and Coats less curious, and that of making Baskets or Hampers, which are wrought so close as to hold Water like solid Vessels. The Christian Religion was first planted in Finland by Eric the Saint, King of Sweden, and so made known to the Inhabitants of Lapland; but it has been much farther propagated by the pious Care of later Princes, more especially of Charles IX. Gustavus Adolphus, and Queen Christina, who founded many Publick Schools and caus'd divers Churches to be built in these parts, allotting competent Salaries to a great number of Pastors for the instructing of those ignorant People in the Principles of Christianity, who nevertheless are very apt to adhere to their former Superstitions, and often joyn the Adoration of Thor, Storjunckare, Baire, and other Idols with the Worship of the true God. At Nafafill, in the District of Pilhalapmark, is a Mine of Silver, and another of Iron in that of Tornelapmark, near Iwerswend, which is reduc'd to Ingots in the Forge of Rejuger. The whole Country is cover'd with Woods, and abounds in all sorts of Game, as Wild-Bears, Rain-Deer, Wolves, Foxes, Martins, Sables, Beavers, Otters, Ermins, Hares, &c. besides Wild-Fowl and Fish. It was heretofore govern'd by certain Kings, who were subdu'd by the Swedes, and is at present divided into five Parts or Quarters, under the name of Marks, as it appears from the ensuing Table.

Lapland divided into Five Parts, viz.

• 1. Uma-Lapmark.
  • ...Loisby.
  • ...Semasiersi.
• 2. Pilha-Lapmark.
  • ...Sitovoma.
  • ...Lochtarii.
  • ...Anierfui.
  • ...Suchsijok.
• 3. Lula-Lapmark.
  • ...Torpajor.
  • ...Strchflucht.
  • ...Jokomuka.
• 4. Torne-Lapmark.
  • ...Segwra.
  • ...Tingwara.
  • ...Ronnela.
  • ...Luvowara.
  • ...Podiersi.
  • ...Teneby.
  • ...Ki•ilaby.
  • ...Encraby.
  • ...Ʋrziiaki.
• 5. Kimi-Lapmark.
  • ...Somby.
  • ...Kimbi.

FINLAND, Finnia aut Finnonia, was first so call'd by the Swedes, as it were Fine-Land from the Pleasantness of the Country, or (as others say) q. Fiende-Land, i. e. the Land of Fiends or Enemies, by reason that the Finlanders were wont to make frequent inrodes into Sweden, before they were entirely subdu'd by that Nation. But the Natives impose the name of Somi or Soma on the whole Country, from the great number of Lakes that are in it, according to the Signification of the word Soma. The Province of Finland hath been sometimes the Inheritance of the Brothers of the Kings of Sweden, and is stretch'd forth from the Baltick Sea to the Gulph of the same name, and that of Bothnia, as far as the Territories of Moscovy, from whence it is separated in part by the Lake of Onega; being bounded on the North by Lapland, on the South by the Gulph of Finland, on the East by the Province of Onega, and on the West by the Bay of Bothnia. Its extent from North to South comprehends the space of about 132 Leagues, and 150 from East to West. This Principality is divided into seven small Provinces, viz. Cajania and Finland properly so call'd, which are situated on the Gulph of Bothnia, Nyland and Carelia, on that of Finland; Kexholm on the Lakes of Ladoga and Onega, Savolaxia and Tavasthia, or Tavastland, in the midst of the Country: The Soil is very fruitful in many places, and there are found Mines of divers Metals within the Territories of Finland strictly so termed, as also some of Loadstone near Raseburg.

Finland divided into Seven small Provinces, viz.

• 1. Cajania, in which are,
  • Cajeneburg, Cap.
  • ...Jo.
  • ...Ʋla.
  • ...Wassa.
  • ...Liminga.
• 2. Finland proper, wherein are,
  • Bierneburg, Cap.
  • Abo, Bish.
  • ...Kaumo.
  • ...Wesilax.
  • ...Nystadt.
  • ...Raseburg.
• 3. Nyland, in which are,
  • ...Helsingfors.
  • ...Borgo.
  • ...Elima.
  • ...Perno.
• 4. Carelia, in which are,
  • Wiburg, Bish. Cap.
  • ...Mala.
  • ...Wehelax.
• 5. Kexholm, in which are,
  • Kexholm, Cap.
  • ...Lexa.
  • ...Porensa.
  • ...Talpal.

• 6. Savolaxia, in which are,
  • Nislot, Cap.
  • ...Rumala.
  • ...Pexama.
  • ...Roxolax.
• 7. Tavasthia, in which are,
  • Tavasthus, Cap.
  • ...Pirkala.
  • ...Jemse.

LIVONIA, Livonia, or Liefland, in the Language of the Country, is bounded on the North by the Gulph of Finland, on the West by that of Livonia or Riga, on the South by Curland, and on the East by the Dutchy of Pleskow and Ingria: It is extended from North to South, for the space of about 66 Leagues, and 50 from East to West. This Country hath been the Theatre of War between the Kings of Sweden and Poland, and the Grand Duke of Moscovy: The Polanders resign'd it to the Swedes in a Treaty of Peace, ratified A. D. 1650, and it hath since become Hereditary to the Crown of Sweden. The Soil is very fruitful in Corn, and affords good Pasture for Cattel. Livonia is usually divided into two parts, viz. the Northern called Estonia. or Este, and the Southern, which bears the name of Litlandia, or Letten.

Livonia divided into Two Parts, viz.

• 1. Estonia, in which are these Towns, viz.
  • Narva, Cap.
  • ...Revel.
  • ...Derpt.
  • ...Pernaw.
  • ...Hapsel.
• 2. Litlandia, in which are,
  • Riga, Arch-Bish. Cap.
  • ...Crutsburg.
  • ...Mariemburg.
  • ...Dunemund.

NARVA, Narva is seated on a River of the same name, which separates Livonia from Pleskow, at the distance of 30 Swedish Miles from Revel to the East, 15 from Derpt to the North-East, and scarcely one from the Bay of Finland. It is one of the strongest Places of the whole Country, and defended by a Castle named Jvannowgorod, which stands on a steep Rock, on the other side of the River in the Province of Ingria, and was taken by Gustavus Adolphus, in the Year 1617. Below this Fort is another Town call'd the Russian Narva, and inhabited by Moscovites; nevertheless subject to the Dominion of the King of Sweden. The River Narva runs with a very swift Course, and has a notable Cataract about half a League above the City, where the Water falling into a Precipice, with a roaring noise, dashes against the Rocks, and is dispers'd as it were into a Vapour, which filling the Air, often seems to represent a kind of Rain-bow, especially in the Morning. The Town of Narva owes its Foundation to Waldemar II. King of Denmark, A. D. 1223, and was taken by the Moscovites in 1558. But the Swedes recover'd it in 1581, and it was confirm'd to them by a Treaty of Peace, in 1599.

REVEL, Revalia is situated on the Gulph of Finland, and hath a commodious Harbour, about 33 German Miles West of Narva, and 37 North of Riga. It is one of the most famous Marts of these Territories, and included within the League of the Hanse-Towns. It was formerly dignify'd with an Episcopal See, under the Metropolitan of Riga; but since the Reform'd Religion prevail'd in these Parts, that Title has been discontinu'd, and all Ecclesiastical Affairs are manag'd by Superintendents. The chief Church is dedicated to St. Olaus, and a Gymnasium, or kind of University is here establish'd for the instructing of young Gentlemen in the liberal Arts and Sciences. This City was founded by Waldemar II. King of Denmark, about A. D. 1230. But Waldemar III. sold it in 1374, to the Grand Master of the Teutonick Order. Afterward it became subject to the Polanders, but having put it self under the Protection of the Kings of Sweden, in 1561, has ever since remain'd in their Possession, being defended by a Castle built on a Rock, which is steep and craggy on all sides except that which faces the Town.

RIGA, Riga called Riig by the Inhabitants, and Rigen by the Germans, stands on the Frontiers of Curland, on the banks of the River Dwina, which a little below falls into the Bay of the same name, and the Baltick Sea, being distant seven Swedish Miles from Mittaw to the North, 29 from Revel to the South, 25 below Dunenburg to the West, 45 from Konigsberg to the North-East, and 48 Polish Miles from Wilna. It was heretofore the Seat of the Knights of Espadon, as also afterward of the Grand Masters of the Teutonick Order, and is as yet the Metropolis of Litland, having long since enjoy'd the Title of an Arch-Bishoprick, first founded by Pope Innocent III. in 1215. This City was built by Albert III. Bishop of Livonia, in 1196, or (as others say) 10 Years before by Bishop Bertold. It is well fortify'd with a firm Wall, Rampart and Ditches, on that side toward Moscovy, and with a strong Castle next the River, which is the Residence of the General Governor of Livonia. The Houses are all built either with Stone or Brick. But the City of Riga is more especially famous for its Traffick into all parts of the Baltick Sea, its Harbour being also much frequented by English, Dutch, and German Merchants, who arrive here in the Summer time, and are furnished with Hemp, Flax, Wax, Pitch, Tar, Planks ready saw'd for Building, Skins and Furs of all sorts, &c. all which are brought thither over the Ice and Snow upon Sledges out of Moscovy and Poland, during the Winter Season: The Inhabitants in like manner drive a constant Trade with the Curlanders throughout the whole Year; They commonly speak either Swedish, High-Dutch, Curlandish or Livonian, but their Divine Service reform'd according to the Augustan Confession, is usually celebrated in the German Tongue, and the Magistrates cause all publick Deeds to be engross'd in the same Language. They have been for some time subject to the Kings of Poland, but Charles IX. King of Sweden, twice in vain attempted, viz. in 1605 and 1609, to make himself Master of their City; however it was afterwands taken by his Son Gustavus Adolphus, A. D. 1621. It hath been also since beleaguer'd by the Moscovites, who were repulsed after they had maintain'd the Siege for some Months, with much Shame, and a very great Slaughter.

INGRIA, or INGERMELAND, Ingria, is a fertile and pleasant Province, bounded on the North by the Lake Ladoga, on the South by Pleskow, on the East by part of Moscovy, and on the West by the Gulph of Finland. It is extended from North to South about 40 Leagues, and 46 from East to West; and formerly appertain'd to the Dominions of the Moscovites, but the Swedes having afterward taken Possession thereof, the Czar, Michael Federowitz, entirely resign'd it to Gustavus Adolphus, conformably to the Articles of the Treaty of Stockholm, A. D. 1618.

• Ingria, wherein are contain'd these Towns, viz.
  • Notteburg, Cap.
  • ...Jvannowgorod.
  • ...Jamagorod.
  • ...Caporia.

NOTTEBƲRG, No•teburgum, call'd Oreska by the Russians, that is to say the Nut, from its Compactness and Strength, is built on a small Island of the Lake Ladoga, where the River Nieva flows toward the Confines of Russia. It is the chief Town of the Province of Ingria; and well fortified, but was taken by Gustavus Adolphus, King of Sweden, A. D. 1614.

There are many Islands depending on the States of the King of Sweden, the most remarkable whereof are specified in the ensuing Table, together with their principal Towns.

The Islands of Sweden.

• Gotland, in which are,
  • Wisby, Cap.
  • ...Norwick.
• Oeland, wherein are,
  • Borkholm, Cap.
  • ...Ostemby.
• Rugen, in which are,
  • Berghen, Cap.
  • ...Newschans.
• Oesel, in which are,
  • Arensburg, Cap.
  • ...Sonneburg.
• Aland,
  • Castelholm, Cap.
• Dagho, or Dachden,
  • ...Dagheroart.
• Usedom.
• Vollin.

The Isle of GOTHLAND, or GƲTLAND, Gothlandia and Gothia, is situated in the Baltick Sea, at the distance of 15 German Miles from the Coasts of Ostrogothland to the East, 20 from Curland, 30 from Dantzick, 50 from Bornholm, and 80 from Rostock. It is stretch'd forth in length from North to South, for the space of above 18 Miles of the like measure, and five or six in breadth from East to West. It was undoubtedly first inhabited by the Goths, who gave it their name, and affords good Pasture for Cattel, more especially Oxen and Hories. This Island formerly depended on the Jurisdiction of the King of Denmark, to whom it was sold A. D. 1408, by the Russian Knights, for the Sum of 9000 Crowns; afterward it was granted to the King of Sweden in the Treaty of Bromsbroo, in 1645. However the Danes took it again in 1677, but were oblig'd to restore it to the Swedes, by vertue of a Treaty of Peace concluded at Fontainbleau near Pa•is in France, A. D. 1679.

WISBY, or VISBƲRG, the chief Town of the Isle of Gothland, and the Seat of its Governor, was heretofore a large City and a famous Mart, enclosing within its Bounds Ten Churches and Four Monasteries, but it is now gone very much to decay, and retains few Inhabitants. It is reported, that Hydrographical Tables and Sea-Charts were first Printed here, and certain Rules prescribed for Navigation and Commerce throughout the whole Ocean, as far as the Scythian Sea, and Hercules-Pillars.

OELAND, Oelandia aut Olandia, is a pleasant and fruitful Isle, separated from the Province of Smaland, by a narrow Streight called Calmar-sund. Its utmost extent from North to South consists of 69 Miles, but its greatest breadth scarcely includes 20. Many Herds of Oxen, Horses, and Fallow-Deer, are bred in this Island, the sides whereof are rais'd and fortified with a great number of Castles, particularly the Fort of Barkholm, or Bornholm. It was taken by Frederick III. King of Denmark, A. D. 1536, but soon after regain'd by Gustavus I. King of Sweden. In 1613 it fell into the hands of Gustavus Adolphus, and has been subject ever since to the Swedish Monarchs.

OESEL, Osilia lies at the entrance of the Gulph of Livonia, containing about 15 Miles in length, six or seven in breadth, and 80 in compass. It is distant 16 German Miles from Riga to the North-West, 11 from Pernaw, 10 from Windaw to the North, 80 from Copenhagen, and 100 from Lubeck. This Island wherein are comprehended nine or ten Parishes, is defended with two Fortresses, viz. those of Arensburg and Sonneburg, and separated from that of DAGHO, or DACHDEN, Daghoa, only by a very narrow Bay or Channel. The later of these Islands is not so large as the other, but on its Southern Coasts are erected two small Castles, named Padem and Dagheroart.

ALAND, Alandia, is an Island in the Baltick Sea environ'd with many others of little note, and lying between Finland to the East, and Ʋpland to the West, from whence it is distant 25 Miles. It abounds in Fish and divers sorts of Beasts; nevertheless there are not found any Wolves nor Deer within its Territories.

A Chronological TABLE, shewing the Succession of 109 Kings of Sweden.

	A. M.	Years.
1. Eric I. After the Deluge.	2014	liv'd 2 or 300
2. Ʋddo, Alo, or Olhen.
3. Charles I. Diorneghetar.
4. Gyluvius, or Gyrpho.
5. Judices.
6. Odin.		Reigned
7. Humble.	2673	about 39
8. Sigtrugius.	2712
9. Suirdager.	2831	60
10. Asmund.	2891	48
11. Ʋsfo.	2939	44
12. Hunding.	2983	48
13. Regner.	3031	29
14. Hothebrod.	3060	60
15. Attilus I.	3120	54
16. Hother.	3174	78
17. Hotaric Slingebanch.	3252	84
18. Attilus II.	3336
An Interruption of five or six Hundred Years.
19. Alaricus.	3916	13
20. Eric II. or III. sir-nam'd the Wise.	3929
	A. C.	Years.
21. Haldan.	43	Reign'd 57
22. Sivard.	100	69
23. Eric IV.	169	12
24. Haldan II. Bergsam.	181	13
25. Ʋnguin.	194	9
26. Ragnald.	203	17
27. Amund.	220	6
28. Haquin.	226	14
29. Osten.	240	22
30. Halver.	262	16
31. Ingo.	278
32. Fielmo.
33. Ingel.
34. Jerunder, or Germond.	382	5

35. Haquin Ringo.	387	Reign'd 2
36. Egillus Vendelkraka.	389	16
37. Gothar.	405	about 28
38. Adel.	433	4
39. Osten II.	437	16
40. Ingemar, or Canut.	453	2
41. Halstan.	455
Here are reckon'd up 14 Kings, according to the report of Joannes Magnus, which make an Interruption of 3 or 400 Years, viz. 1 Ragual. 2 Suvartan. 3 Jordon. 4 Rodolphus. 5 Gostagus. 6 Arthum. 7 Haquin. 8 Charles IV. 9 Charles V. 10 Birger. 11 Eric V. 12 Torillus. 13 Biorn. 14 Alaricus.
56. Biorn, or Bern II.	800	34
57. Herot.	834	22
58. Charles VI.	856	12
59. Biorn III.	868	23
60. Ingel.	885	6
61. Olaus I.	891	9
62. Ingo II.	900	7
63. Eric VI. Bederhat.	907	10
64. Eric VII. the Victorious.	917	63
65. Eric VIII.	949, or 980	32
66. Olaus II.	1012	5
67. Amand the Collier.	1019	16
68. Emond I.	1035	6
69. Haquin III. the Ruddy.	1041	12
70. Stenchil.	1059
71. Ingo III.	1059
72. Halstan, the Brother of Ingo.	1064	5
73. Philip, the Son of Halstan.	1080	16
74. Ingo IV. the Son of Philip.	1110	30
75. Raynald.	1129	19
76. Suercher II.	1140	21
He first assum'd the Title of King of Sweden, the others were styl'd Kings of Ʋpsal.
77. Eric IX. the Saint.	1160	20
78. Charles VII.	1162	2
79, Olaus II.		Reign'd
80. Canut, the Son of St. Eric.	1168	24
81. Suercher III.	1192	19
82. Eric X.	1211	8
83. John I.	1219	4
84. Eric XI. the Stammerer.	1223	28
85. Waldemar.	1251	26
86. Magnus I. the Adult.	1277	14
87. Birgher, the Son of Magnus.	1291	28
88. Magnus II. Smet.	1319	41
89. Eric XII. poison'd by his Mother Blanche.	1360	16
He spake thus to his Nephew Eric XIII. Sweden shall Nourish you, Norway shall Cloath you, and Denmark shall Defend you.
90. Albertus Megalopolitanus.	1376	20
91. Margaret the Dane.
92. Eric XIII. King of 3 Kingdoms.	1396	45
93. Christopher the Bavarian.	1441	4
94. Charles VIII. the Canut.	1445	12
95. Christian I.	1457	14
96. Stenosturus, the old Administrator of the Kingdom.	1471	26
97. John II.	1497	7
98. Stenosturus, Regent.	1504
99. Suantosurus, Regent.	1504	16
100. Christian II. the Tyrant.	1520	3
101. Gustavus II.	1523	37
102. Eric XIV.	1560	8
103. John III.	1568	26
104. Sigismund I.	1594	6
105. Charles IX. Duke of Sudermania.	1600	11
106. Gustavus Adolphus III. the Great.	1611	21
107. Christina.	1632	22
108. Charles Gustavus X.	1654	6
109. Charles XI.	1660	Reigning.