For a peaceful planet and a peaceful soul, visit Backåkra

In 1953, when Cold War tensions disrupted the world, the newly-established United Nations was working to maintain world peace. At its forefront stood one of Sweden’s most famous figures of the modern age: Dag Hammarskjöld, secretary-general for the United Nations between 1953 and 1961.

Dag Hammarskjöld was a symbol for peace and justice who valued equality, equity, freedom and unity. He was highly successful in his work as mediator, a role he wanted to bring with him back to Sweden; to Backåkra Gård in Skåne.

Farm.

“Hammarskjöld bought the farm Backåkra with the mission to combine his work for peace-making with his love for nature. The ever-flowing fields and open horizons in the south of Sweden reminded him of freedom, and he hoped this would be a place for people to meet, talk and connect,” explains Gunilla Herdenberg, superintendent of Backåkra Museum.

Sadly, Hammarskjöld never got to see his vision through, as he died in a plane crash in 1961. He bequeathed the farm to a local association, and it has since become just what he intended it to be – and more.

The Dag Hammarskjöld Museum

The museum is run by a foundation and exhibits his belongings and gifts from nations around the world, as well as art and furniture from his New York flat.

The farm is also a place for meditation, strolls in the beautiful nature, meetings and lectures, just like Hammarskjöld wanted.

To honour his love for nature, Backåkra Museum’s latest exhibition is inspired by Hammarskjöld’s work in environmental preservation. The exhibition Not to Encumber the Earth will be open in June 2023.

Left. Dag Hammarskjöld. Right: Dag Hammarskjöld statue.

Web: www.dhbackakra.se
Facebook: Dag Hammarskjölds Backåkra