The Matchstick area in Jönköping

The Matchstick area is like a journey through time. The charming cobblestone streets and the grand buildings from the 1800s are testaments to a time when the matchstick industry was Jönköping’s largest business. At the Matchstick Museum, located in a beautiful wooden building from 1848 by the southern shore of Lake Vättern, you can explore this important part of the city’s history. Here, you will learn how once small-scale factories developed into a global industry that put Jönköping on the map. Although matchstick production ceased in the 1970s, the area was preserved and transformed into the cultural and creative space we see today.

The history of the Matchstick area goes beyond just the matchstick industry. It is also a story of Jönköping’s development, from an industrial city to a modern cultural hub. By following the information signs in the area or taking a map folder from the Matchstick Museum or the municipality’s InfoPoints, you can explore the area’s history on your own and discover how the industry has shaped the city and continues to influence it.

The Matchstick area is a dynamic meeting place where culture and creativity thrive. The Cultural Center is a multifaceted arena that offers everything from theater and dance performances to lectures and film screenings. It also features rehearsal spaces for music creation, open workshops for those who want to try creating, and a cinema showing both new and classic films. With its mix of art, culture, and creative expressions, the Cultural Center is a central place for anyone seeking inspiration or wanting to be part of the local cultural scene.

For those who want to enjoy good food in a pleasant environment, there is a wide selection of restaurants and cafés in the Matchstick area. Here, there’s something for every taste, from the Nordic classic at Brasserie NÒR to fresh fish and seafood at Pescadores, the city’s only such restaurant.

For craft beer lovers, there is Idlewild beer café a popular choice, while Bongo Bar combines great food with live music and a relaxed atmosphere. If you’re looking for something a bit more unique, you can visit Tegel Burgare & Bärs, where you can enjoy burgers in one of the city’s most stylish venues, or Blackstone Steakhouse, where you have the opportunity to cook your own food on a blazing hot lava stone.

The Matchstick area also offers a hotel – Quality Hotel Match, which boasts a fantastic view of Lake Vättern and a sleek design. The hotel’s restaurant serves food with Nordic influences and is a popular spot for both hotel guests and locals.

For those seeking a more intimate and personal experience, there are also several charming bed and breakfast options nearby, where guests can enjoy a cozy atmosphere and close contact with the hosts.