Ven Island - Uraniborg 
5km/3mi off the Swedish coast, in the Öresund, is the island of Ven (area 7.5sq.km/3sq.mi; pop. 300), probably a relic of a former land link between Skåne and Zealand in Denmark. The island, a plateau with steeply sloping eroded sides, was already occupied in the Stone Age.
Ven owes its fame to the Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe (1546-1601), who lived from 1578 to 1598 in Uranienborg, a castle in the center of the island.
Ven owes its fame to the Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe (1546-1601), who lived from 1578 to 1598 in Uranienborg, a castle in the center of the island.
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Must-see attractions nearby:
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King Frederick II of Denmark (to which Ven belonged until 1658) granted the estate to Tycho Brahe so that he could carry on his astronomical observations in its dust-free air. From his observatory of Stjärneborg Brahe discovered the first super-nova star, recording his observations in his book "De nova stella" ("Of the New Star")
Visitors can see the remains of Uranienborg and Stjärneborg and the Brahe Museum. There is also a statue of the great astronomer.
The best way to explore the island is by bicycle (which can be hired at Bäckviken, where the boat comes in) or on foot. There is also a bus service from Bäckviken to Kyrkbacken, on the northwest coast of the island, near which is the 12th century church of St Ibb (St James). It is advisable to take a picnic with you, for there are considerable distances between the kiosks selling snacks. Good swimming.
Visitors can see the remains of Uranienborg and Stjärneborg and the Brahe Museum. There is also a statue of the great astronomer.
The best way to explore the island is by bicycle (which can be hired at Bäckviken, where the boat comes in) or on foot. There is also a bus service from Bäckviken to Kyrkbacken, on the northwest coast of the island, near which is the 12th century church of St Ibb (St James). It is advisable to take a picnic with you, for there are considerable distances between the kiosks selling snacks. Good swimming.
