Karlstad

Karlstad ([хкk маранистанистания(d)] (?·i)) is a Swedish city located on the north bank of Lake Vänern. Karlstad is the capital of the homonymous municipality and the province of Värmland, as well as the episcopal headquarters of the diocese of Karlstad. It occupies place number 18 among the largest cities in Sweden.

Karlstad, or Tingvalla as it was originally called, has been an important trading center since the Viking Age. In 1584 the town obtained the privilege of city from King Carlos IX, as well as its current name (city of Carlos). Karlstad is located in the delta formed by the Klara River before it flows into Lake Vänern. Karlstad is popularly associated with poets (Gustaf Fröding lived in the city) and has a reputation for being a sunny city. That is why one of its symbols is a smiling sun.