Båstnäs Car Cemetery

The reclusive owners and curators of the car cemetery hidden in the woods near the Swedish/Norwegian border don’t seem to mind photographers snapping pictures, but that same laissez-faire attitude does not apply to anyone who thinks of stealing from, or even altering in any way, their artfully overgrown collection.   

Deep into the forests of the region of Värmland in Sweden, lies this well-hidden car cemetery. Hundreds of cars from the 1940s, 50s, and 60s are spread out in the area, some of them covered with moss, with trees growing through them, stacked on top of each other or placed side by side. While it has not been confirmed, many of the cars are said to have belonged to the US military who left the autos after World War II.  People interested in cars, artists, and photographers come here from near and far to take it in and be inspired. However, the peaceful setting is not without its threatening aspects.

The auto graveyard is said to be owned by a pair of reclusive brothers whose homes are also located on the swath of land. They do not seem to be interested in the spotlight, but they also do not seem to mind photographers coming to enjoy their jalopy collection. Yet they have very strict rules about taking anything away or messing with the cars at all really. Previously nailed to a door, on one of the buildings were three seat covers scrawled with the owners’ message to visitors:

“This car cemetery is private property. You may still look, take pictures but DO NOT take away parts. Do not destroy or in any other way disrupt this place. If you open a car door, please shut it again so the next visitor get the same experience as you did!! For info: after about 30 burglaries this year I’m fed up with it! I’ve made traps in the buildings so if you get hurt or die, I DON’T CARE! Remember in this place no one can hear you scream…”