Semla Area

When Strömsholm Canal was built, Semla Ironworks was the largest in Fagersta. Perhaps that is why, in 1787, when King Gustav III toured the canal and named all the locks, he named the lock in Semla after himself—King Gustav III’s Lock.
 

In the beautiful natural surroundings of Semla lies the uppermost lock on Strömsholm Canal. Once, there were mines here, known as early as the 14th century, and a powerful ironworks.
A hundred years later, a district judge in Dalarna named Henrik Symbla, described as “a decent man,” lived in the area. Some believe the region was named after him, later simplified to Semla. Others think the name comes from an old word for “rapids.”
 

At the beginning of the 17th century, Semla received ironworks privileges, allowing three hammers and two hearths. This marked the start of a flourishing industry that became the most successful in the region during the 18th century. However, when Strömsholm Canal was constructed, Semla Ironworks, like many others near the canal, had to demolish some of its economic buildings, including the blast furnace and the upper hammer, to make room for the new canal channel.
During the 19th century, the ironworks’ activity declined, and in 1861, it was shut down and incorporated into Fagersta Ironworks. Today, only the ruins of one of the hammers and slag heaps remain as clear traces of its former smelting operations.
In 1890, the grand manor house burned down, marking the end of Semla’s ironworking era. However, mining operations continued until the 1960s.
 

Even though Semla’s iron production ended in the late 19th century, a new era began. In the late 1890s, electricity and industrialization took over. Three power plants were built in Semla, drawing power from the Kolbäck River. The first was constructed in 1897, replaced by a new one in 1902, and then again in 1910, which remained operational for 106 years until 2016.
The latest power plant came into operation in 2017 and is operated by Uniper. Of the 11 hydroelectric power plants downstream of Semla along the Kolbäck River, only the lowest, Västerkvarn Power Station, has built a fish passage to allow migration past the plant. However, some fish can pass through when the locks are in operation.
Today, Semla is a beautiful recreational area with many cultural and historical remnants and rich wildlife. If you want to enjoy the stunning nature and abundant birdlife, you can follow the Flobostigen, a four-kilometer nature and cultural trail that reveals traces of Semla’s history while showcasing diverse flora and fauna.
 

Facts
Canal and locks, remnants of the once-mighty Semla Ironworks from 1580. Lockkeeper’s residence, power plant, ruins, and an artificial island.
A four-kilometer hiking trail, Flobostigen, runs through the area and past several historical sites.
Self-guided visits. Well-marked signage.
 

Foto: Toppbild + bilder 2 & 4 höger: Fredrik Findahl