Botkyrka is a Municipality in Stockholm County, in central Sweden. The municipality covers an area of 196.4 km². Of the total population of 73097, 36468 are male, and 36629 are female. The population density of the community is 372 inhabitants per km². The municipal seat is located in Tumba.

The Municipality is named after Saint Botvid who was a christian missionary in the area in the 12th century. There is still a stone church, Botkyrka kyrka , from this time. Saint Botvid is also shown on the seal and flag of Botkyrka, carrying an axe and a fish. According to the legend, he was killed with an axe while fishing.

Botkyrka has one of the highest percentages of first and second generation immigrants in Sweden. Nearly half the population has at least one parent born in another country. In some areas, like Fittja, around 95% belong to this group. This gives the municipality a multi-cultural atmosphere with for example a big Syrian Orthodox Church in Hallunda and the construction of a Mosque in progress in Fittja.

The local monthly newspaper is called "Mitt i Botkyrka" and is delivered free of charge to all inhabitants.

Urban areas of Botkyrka

• Fittja
• Alby
• Hallunda
• Norsborg
• Eriksberg
• Tumba
• Tullinge
• Vårsta

External links

• Botkyrka - Official site