Falköping

Road 46 runs south from Skövde through a region rich in prehistoric sites. Half way between Skövde and Falköping is the oldest Cistercian nunnery in Sweden, probably founded in 1161 by King Karl Sverkersson. Falköping (pop. 32,000) is one of the highest towns in Sweden (alt. 220m/722ft). Its 18th and 19th century streets, with a sprinkling of modern architecture, have preserved their charm. An unusual feature of the town's layout is that the streets curve round to avoid a passage grave. St Olof's Church (12th C.) is one of the many churches in the area, which is reckoned to have one of the largest numbers of churches in any Swedish commune. In the Municipal Park are an impressive passage grave and a museum.