Kalmar

Kalmar, a town and seaport of Sweden, capital of a län or county (area, 4436 sq. m.; pop. 234,275) of the same name, is situated on an island in Kalmar Sound, opposite the island of Öland. The town, which was formerly strongly fortified, though the fortifications are now in great part levelled, has a good harbour, a handsome cathedral, and a fine castle, in which, on 20th July 1397, the 'Union of Kalmar' was signed, which settled the succession to the three northern kingdoms upon Margaret of Denmark and her heirs (see DENMARK). The commerce of the town is considerable, and it has manufactures of matches, chicory, and tobacco, and some shipbuilding. Pop. (1895) 12,030.