Baie de Madeleine, Spitzberg, par le 79°35m lat. Nord by François-Auguste Biard

Join Anna Lena Ekeblad as we follow a young Parisienne, Léonide d’Aunet, on her remarkable voyage to Spitsbergen in 1839.

This journey proved life-changing for the 19-year-old, revealing a brave and modern young woman who challenged the social boundaries of her time. Through her vivid memoirs, we’ll gain a glimpse into her adventurous spirit and the world she encountered at the edge of the Arctic.

Anna Lena Ekeblad first came to Svalbard in 1991 and immediately fell in love with the place. In 1995, she moved from Sweden to Longyearbyen, where she has lived ever since. She has worked as a guide since 1995, spent two years living in Ny-Ålesund, and now works for Longyearbyen Lokalstyre while continuing to guide and give lectures. With a deep passion for Arctic history, Anna Lena spent 13 years at Svalbard Museum and now teaches Svalbard history as part of Visit Svalbard’s guide training programme. She loves sharing her enthusiasm for the Arctic with anyone who wants to listen.

Where: Artica Svalbard, vei 608-3, Longyearbyen

When: Thursday 20 November, 18:00 - 19:00

Please note: this lecture will be hosted in English