The changes in the boreal forest landscape of Sweden during the last 150 yr are analysed using results of forest inventories and surveys from 1870 to the present day. The standing volume of trees decreased due to large-scale exploitation of virgin forests until the 1950s. Despite intensive planting and management since the 1950s the standing volume is still less than it was 120 yr ago. Forest structure has also changed. The proportion of forests older than 150 yr has decreased from 43.5% in 1915 to 7% in 1990. In Sweden stands are usually cut at age 100-150 yr. The natural lifespan of Norway spruce [Picea abies] is 250-400 yr and that of Scots pine [Pinus sylvestris] 300-600 yr. The number of Scots pine and Norway spruce with diameter at breast height of >30 cm has decreased by more than 80% over the last 100 yr. The volume of standing dead trees, snags and logs on the ground has also decreased.