Gavle Goat

The julbock, a straw goat, is an old Swedish Christmas figure, and in 1966 a Gavle advertising consultant, Stig Gavlen, proposed building an enormous one in the square to draw people to the shops. It went up, and it was burned on New Year's Eve. That has been the pattern since: the goat is raised on the first Sunday of Advent, about thirteen metres of straw over a timber frame, and a substantial share of the years it has been destroyed - usually by arson, occasionally by other means - despite fences, cameras, guards and flame retardant. A webcam follows it and betting on its survival has become part of the story. It stands until after New Year when it lasts.

What's there

• Thirteen metres of straw - over a timber frame, in the square.
• Raised on Advent Sunday - every year since 1966.
• A long record of arson - despite fences, guards and cameras.
• A webcam through the season - watched well beyond Sweden.

When to go

December, from the first Sunday of Advent. Half an hour.

Things to know

It may already have burned when you arrive. It is one object in a square - a short stop. Gavle in December is dark and cold. There is nothing to enter or tour.

Nearby

Gavle old town is a short walk; Furuvik is south-east.

Key facts