Karlstad is the largest city in Värmland, Sweden, with just under 100,000 people in the municipality. The city was founded in 1584 by Duke Charles, later King Charles IX, on the site of the older medieval trading settlement of Tingvalla. Karlstad lies where the Klarälven river approaches Lake Vänern, and water remains one of the defining features of the city centre, with riverside paths, bridges and parks throughout the area. Much of central Karlstad was rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1865 destroyed around 95 per cent of the town, resulting in the broad streets and large Stora torget seen today. Notable sights include Karlstad Cathedral, Värmlands Museum and Sandgrund Lars Lerin. The city also has a particular place in Norwegian-Swedish history: negotiations over the dissolution of the union between Norway and Sweden were held here in 1905. Karlstad has produced a number of heavier bands over the years, including influential stoner rock group Lowrider, but the city is not generally defined by a single major metal movement.

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