The Långe Jan lighthouse — 'Tall John' — first cast its light over the Baltic waves on November 1, 1785. Rising from the craftsmanship of, perhaps, Russian prisoners of war, it stands as a beacon of history and maritime safety on Öland's southernmost point. Initially measuring a soaring 36 meters and requiring a 197-step ascent, it now proudly stretches to 41.6 meters, claiming the title of Sweden's loftiest lighthouse. Once cradling an open flame against the Nordic sky, Långe Jan has seen transformations from bare stone, borrowed from a bygone chapel, to a whitewashed pillar with a distinguishing black band. Surrounded by the thriving Ottenby bird station, Långe Jan's legacy is as enduring as the coastal winds, welcoming visitors each summer to scale its heights and embrace a panoramic sweep of sea and sky.

The Bells Monument outside the city centre of Sofia was installed in 1979, when UNESCO declared it International Year of the Child. The monument presents more than 70 bells from across the world, on pillars that are marked with a message from children from the respective nation. Occasionally, the seven main bells, one for each continent at the top of the central pillar, ring along to parades or events held around the monument.

The elegant Soestdijk Palace is situated on the estate between Soest and Baarn, close to Amersfoort. The palace has served many purposes in its lifetime. Twice it was used as a military barracks, but it also served for a long time as one of the royal family’s favourite palaces. Nowadays, the palace is a museum and an events venue. Visit and enjoy the lovely palace gardens, a guided tour of the palace or a concert.