Ostrogothia (Östergötland) is a historical Province (landskap) in the south of Sweden. It borders Smalandia, Westrogothia, Nericia, Sudermannia and the Baltic Sea.
County
For current affairs see: Östergötland County
Östergötland County has virtually the same boundaries as the province of Ostrogothia.
History
Main article: History of Ostrogothia
The traditions of Ostrogothia date back into the viking age, the undocumented iron age, and before, when this region had its own laws and kings (see Geatish kings and Wulfings). The region kept its own laws, or Östgötalagen, into the middle ages and the unification of Sweden. Traditionally, the region is divided into two halves, east and west of the river Stångån, which flows from the south into lake Roxen at Linköping.
Geography
Main article: Geography of Ostrogothia
Ostrogothia was historically divided into chartered cities and into hundreds.
Cities
Hundreds
The eastern part of Göta Canal traverses the province from the Baltic sea at Mem to lake Vättern at Motala.
Culture
Main article: Culture of Ostrogothia
In Ostrogothia, Östgötska, the eastern variety of the Götaland dialect of Swedish is spoken. However some parts, bordering to Sudermannia, adhere to the Svealand dialect. "Östergötland", literally means Eastern Götaland.
Ekenäs Castle , one of the best preserved renaissance castles in Sweden, has belonged to the families Sture and Banér. Löfstad Castle has its origin in the early 17th century having belonged to the von Fersen family. Vadstena Castle , built by the Vasa dynasty 1545-1620, is combined fortress and renaissance castle.
Heraldry
Main article: Heraldry of Ostrogothia
From 1560 Ostrogothia was represented with two separate arms until 1884 when the current one was granted. The arms is represented with a dukal coronet. Blazon: "Gules a Griffin with Dragon Wings, Tail and Tongue rampant Or armed, beaked, langued and membered Azure between four Roses Argent."
Dukes of Ostrogothia
Since 1772, Swedish Princes have been created Dukes of various provinces. This is solely a nominal title.
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