Iron-clad wooden spades were the main tool used for digging the canal. Picture from the Canal Museum in Motala.

Also on display in Motala is a model of a lock

The exhibition at Sjötorp includes an impressive collection of photographs of early navigation in Lake Vänern.

THE CANAL MUSEUM in Motala. The museum is next to the harbour and presents fascinating displays on the history of the Göta Canal. The model of a lock shows how boats are lifted up and down. The special historical display provides an interesting insight into the greatest civil engineering feat in Sweden. Be sure to visit the lockkeeper's cottage from the 1820s on the pier opposite the museum. The period cottage was the home of the Kjell family at the turn of the last century.

Opening times 1999
17 May - 18 June: Mon-Fri 09.00-12.00 and 13.00-17.00

21 June - 1 August: Daily 09.00 - 18.00 (closed for lunch 13.00-14.00). Closed Saturdays, Sundays and Midsummer Eve.

2-20 August: Mon-Fri 09.00-12.00 and 13.00-17.00.

Open at other times by prior arrangement with AB Göta kanalbolag, tel +46 141 535 10.

Admission: Adult SEK 20, child 6-12: SEK 5. Family ticket(2 adults + 2 children): SEK 40.

CANAL EXHIBITION at Sjötorp: The harbour storehouse at Sjötorp contains historical displays of the Göta Canal focusing on Sjötorp boatyard and navigation in the canal and Lake Vänern. There is also a fine collection of veteran boat motors.

Admission: Adult SEK 20, child 6-12: SEK 5. Family ticket(2 adults + 2 children): SEK 40. Familjebiljett (2 vuxna + barn) 40 kr.