THE ROYAL PALACE
An ideal beginning point for a visit is the historical centre of Stockholm, which served as the true heart of the city during mediaeval times.Commencing the journey at the Palace hill, situated adjacent to the exquisite Cathedral of Stockholm. Gamla Stan, or simply the Old Town, is the name of the landmass on which you are currently standing.The strategic advantage this island offered likely influenced the decision to build on it. By situating themselves on top of the hill, they would have gained a vantage point for protection and trade, both of which were crucial during mediaeval times. This island gave a solution to address both vital concerns. Regarding defence Orienting yourself towards the east, you face the Baltic Sea, a crucial route for all invaders and pirates attempting to reach Stockholm. The geographical location on the Baltic Sea provided a favourable advantage for conducting trade. Water encircles the island from two directions, with Lake Maleren, Sweden's third largest lake, situated on the opposite side. Due to the lake's slightly raised surface, the water flows downward and surges around both sides of the island before entering the Baltic Sea. Therefore, it is quite likely that this Island was selected for a colony due to specific reasons. The settlement began after the Viking age, around the 1100s. However, the late 1200s saw the creation of the settlement's first official record.We will now make our way up the hill towards the Catherdral at the top
Statue Carl Johan XIV Jean-Baptiste Bernadotte
Imagine stepping back in time to January 26, 1763, in the charming town of Pau, France. Here, we meet Jean Baptiste Bernadotte, a figure of great significance who rose to prominence as a Marshal of France during the illustrious era of Napoleon Bonaparte. He earned acclaim for his exceptional abilities in military leadership and his adeptness in diplomatic negotiations. In the year 1810, he ascended to the Swedish throne, taking on the title of King Charles XIV John of Sweden and Norway. This visionary established the Bernadotte dynasty, a lineage that proudly continues to govern Sweden to this very day. As we explore this legacy, we uncover the enduring impact of Bernadotte's contributions to the nation. He played a pivotal role in shaping Swedish history, driving modernisation and championing social and economic reforms. As we explore the era of Bernadotte, we encounter a leader celebrated for his steadfast commitment to promoting peace and upholding a position of neutrality across Europe.In 1798, a significant union takes place as Jean Baptiste Bernadotte weds Désirée Clary. Imagine a time when Désirée Clary, once betrothed to the formidable Napoleon Bonaparte, embarked on a remarkable journey that led her to become Queen Desideria of Sweden. They produced one heir to the throne, Oscar I, the sole offspring of Jean Baptiste Bernadotte and Désirée Clary. As we delve into his life, imagine the unique journey that began with his birth, shaping the course of history.
Palace Hill Stockholms Cathedral
Welcome to the Stockholm Cathedral, originally named St Nicholas and now referred to as Stor kyrkan. This magnificent structure was established in the 13th century, inviting you to explore its rich history and architectural beauty. Once upon a time, this was a humble wooden structure which stood as the heart of the village, serving as its primary church. As we journey through its history, we encounter the arrival of missionaries and monks from the Roman Catholic Church, bringing with them innovative construction techniques that would transform the landscape. Following a catastrophic fire, the church was reconstructed with stone, featuring the addition of two small spires, a doorway, and windows that enhanced its beauty. As you explore Old Town Island, you'll notice that the church stands proudly at the highest elevation, offering a commanding view of the surroundings.In the 1400s, seafarers held St Nicolas in high regard, celebrating him as their patron saint, and his popularity soared among them. Imagine a landscape where nearly 3000 churches across Italy, France, and Germany stand as testaments to his immense popularity; seafarers, merchants, and fishermen adorned their ships and boats with images of St Nicholas, seeking his protection against the tempestuous storms that could arise.As you study the cathedral, imagine it standing tall for 700 years, quietly witnessing countless pivotal moments in history unfold around it. As we journey through the history of the Roman Catholic Church in Sweden, we encounter a tapestry of significant events. Picture the plagues that swept through the land, the devastation of the Black Death, and the flames of fires that marked the passage of time. Imagine the raids that disrupted the peace, the grand coronations of monarchs, and the joyous weddings that celebrated love. We also witness the victories that shaped the nation and the momentous occasion of the first Swedish mass in the church, conducted in the native tongue, echoing through the ages.In the year 1336, the grand Storkyrkan witnessed the first historic royal coronation of Magnus the Sixth and Blanche of Namur, marking a significant moment in history. As we explore the history of mediaeval coronations, we find that most of these significant events occurred at Uppsala Cathedral, situated just north of Stockholm. However, in the year 1873, King Oscar II became the last Swedish monarch to receive the royal coronation at the magnificent Storkyrkan. Imagine the grandeur of the ceremony and the significance it held for the nation.Another momentous occasion was on November 4, 1521, in a grand church ceremony, Christian II of Denmark was crowned the Swedish king. This moment marked a significant turning point in history, symbolising Sweden's acceptance of his authority. However, not long after, the event known as the Stockholm bloodbath took place.Storkyrkan had, in the mediaeval times, fulfilled the solemn role of a king's burial church. However, Riddarholmen Church took on that significant role, continuing until the year 1950. Visitors also often gathered at the church to honour and remember significant military victories, such as the successful battle against the powerful Russian forces at Narva.In the wake of the tragic Estonian disaster in 1994, the Swedish Prime Minister, along with the Royal Family, gathered at the church to honour the memory of those lost in a solemn commemorative ceremony.In the year 2010, a celebrative event took place when the marriage ceremony of Victoria, Crown Princess of Sweden, and Daniel Westling unfolded, marking a significant chapter in royal history.STATUEAs you stand before the grand cathedral, take a moment to admire the statue of Olof Petri. This remarkable figure is recognised for bringing a transformative religious movement to Sweden, a pivotal moment that set the stage for the Reformation in the 1500s. As we explore the historical landscape, we find that Martin Luther's introduction of a new Bible in Germany marked a pivotal moment, giving rise to a new religion that would shape the course of history. Petri, celebrated for his bravery, honesty, and boldness, was an exceptionally prolific writer; he and his brothers were celebrated for their groundbreaking translation of the Latin Bible into Swedish. This pivotal work opened the door for many to grasp the profound teachings of God.The Church's constructionAs we explore the cathedral, take note of the primary construction materials that were carefully selected for its creation: brick, sandstone, and granite. Each element contributes to the majestic structure you see before you. If you look upon the cathedral, you'll notice its impressive height reaching 63 metres, complemented by a width of 37.2 metres. As you observe the church, take note of its consistently Baroque architectural style. Inside you will discover a different style: the stunning interior brick arches and the distinctive windows that showcase the building's original Gothic architectural style.A new tower spire was added, and as you take in the stunning architecture, notice the original baroque colour of the cathedral, a beautiful shade which is an original baroque colour, which has recently been restored to its former glory. In the northwest section, you'll notice some stained glass crafted by Einar Forseth in the 20th century; the predominant feature here is the abundance of transparent windows, allowing natural light to flood the interior of the church. On the east side of the church.The Church CourtyardAs you stand in the courtyard, take a moment to observe the backs of the stock exchange buildings that rise prominently across from you. The architect Erik Palmstedt's design, which was once envisioned as extensions of the stock market, was originally used as the serene burial chapel and coach house of the church with an entrance from one of the small buildings down into the catacombs of the church. Originally the deceased were lowered into the catacombs from inside the church; over the years they ran out of space, and all the remains were taken to lie to rest in a cemetery to the north of Stockholm.As you explore, you'll notice the walls that elegantly frame the courtyard to both the west and east. Look closely at the wrought iron gates, which stand as inviting entrances to this serene space. As you approach the gates, you’ll notice that both were once graced by allegorical figures. However, only the statues at the west entrance have withstood the test of time, inviting you to explore their storied presence. Take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship of Peter Schultz, who created these two statues in 1675. Notice how the figure on the south pillar embodies reason, while the one on the north post beautifully represents divine love.If you decide to explore the interior (there is a small fee for entrance), you'll discover several remarkable historical features that tell a fascinating story. Behold St George and the Dragon, a remarkable late mediaeval equestrian figure that proudly claims the title of Europe's oldest wooden statue. Take a moment to appreciate its historical significance and craftsmanship. plus a remarkable gift: In the year 1652, a stunning silver altarpiece, crafted as a portrait, was presented to the church. Here, we encounter the earliest known colour depiction of this vibrant city of Stockholm captured in the sundog painting from the 1500s. You will notice the grandeur of the royal seating and the impressive podiums that stand as symbols of authority and elegance. There is also a significant number of tombstones and grave memorials. Here, each stone tells a story, marking the final resting place of individuals who once walked among us. You will also see Europe's oldest votive wooden ship model, gracefully suspended from above. As we journey through the mediaeval period, we encounter a remarkable gift: a cast-iron candelabra, a treasure from the 1400s, generously donatedWe will now make our way to the Old market square
The Market Square
In the vibrant centre of Stockholm's Old Town (Gamla Stan), you'll find the Old Market Square, a celebrated public space steeped in history that stretches back to the 13th century. Stortorget, the oldest plaza in Stockholm, dates back to the mid-1200s and has long served as a vibrant centre for trade, festivities, and political events. The old market square captivates both residents and tourists alike, featuring a lively plaza brimming with cafes and restaurants, alongside delightful cobblestone pathways. Stortorget is an essential stop for visitors eager to fully experience Stockholm's rich cultural heritage.We will now investigate the buildings that surround the square
VIKING RUNE STONE
You can find the runestone at the crossroads of Priest Street and Kåkbrinken. Take a moment to observe the stone integrated into the lower wall. This broken stone dates back to the Viking era, once designed and erected by Torsten and Frögunn in remembrance of their son. The stone probably originates from the Uppland region in Sweden, situated north of Stockholm. The stone perhaps served as a building material throughout the house's creation, as runestones of this kind were not found on the island of the old town. The stone may have been found in a damaged state at a site beyond the city limits and later brought here with various construction materials. Upon careful observation of the stone, one might notice a Bluetooth symbol integrated within the stone's engravings. This symbol pays homage to the legendary Viking leader, Herald Blue Tooth the Great, who earned his nickname from indulging in an abundance of blueberries found in the nearby forests, leading to a unique blue tint on his teeth.This ancient stone, believed to be more than 1000 years old, hails from the Viking era and predates the establishment of the Old Town. These memorial stones can be found throughout Scandinavia and even extended to what is now Tehran. At the intersection of the streets, you'll find a historic cannon barrel from the 17th century, standing as a testament to the past. The cannon barrel served to safeguard the wall, as manoeuvring through the tight streets with horses and carts posed difficulties, and the corners were prone to wear and tear.As you gaze across the street and down the quaint Priest Street, your eyes are drawn upward to the winch arms gracefully reaching out from the rooftops, hovering above the charming thoroughfare. Using a combination of blocks, pulleys, and ropes, one can elevate heavy items with ease up into the attics of the house. Nowadays, numerous attics have transformed into cosy living spaces, while the warehouse hatches on street level have been reimagined as charming windows.Priest Street served as the residence for the clergy. To the north, you would find the Swedish priests and clergy associated with the cathedral, while to the south of the street, the German priests gathered.We will now walk along Priest Street towards the German Church
PRIEST STREET
The area on the street once featured a gateway that welcomed visitors into the city's walls during the mediaeval era. As you reach number 48 Priest Street, keep an eye out for three homes that stand a bit shorter than the others around them. This architectural style flourished throughout the Middle Ages. The stone structures were built using sturdy burnt red brick, featuring dimensions that are notably larger than those of contemporary bricks. Moreover, the method of laying bricks was distinctive, with every third brick positioned upright.The visible iron rods on the exteriors provided essential support to the floor joists and outer walls in the old townhouses. The blacksmith shaped the tips of these iron rods into various designs, inviting a closer look to uncover the age of the house, as different designs are from different periodsKeep strolling down the street until you arrive at Tyskabrinken, commonly referred to as the German Hill.During the mediaeval era, the city's population was split evenly, with half being Dutch and German traders and merchants, while the other half comprised Swedish citizens. The architectural landscape of the city bears the mark of German influence, showcasing new skills introduced to the region.
The German Church St Gertrudes
TIn the Middle Ages, the area surrounding the German church at Gamla Stan was predominantly settled by Germans. This occurrence was linked to the influence of the Hanseatic League, mainly made up of German traders, who exerted considerable authority over commerce in the Baltic area during this time. As a result, numerous merchants made their homes in Hanseatic ports like Stockholm.Because of their elevated socioeconomic standing, these merchants enjoyed a variety of extra privileges. Before the church was consecrated in 1842, the land was occupied by the German Guild of St. Gertrud. As you stroll through Stockholm, keep an eye out for the German Church (Tyska kyrkan), or at least its striking spire, which stands out as a key feature of the Gamla Stan skyline. This structure is frequently confused with the principal cathedral of Stockholm due to its impressive height, surpassing that of Storkyrkan, and its traditional church-like design, featuring a sleek copper spire that soars to 96 meters. This church, also known as St. Gertrud's Church, is dedicated to honouring the German saint.As you gaze upward, you'll notice the intricate dragon water spouts adorning each corner of the tower.The interior design of the church features beautiful vaults and ceilings, creating a visually appealing atmosphere. Highlights encompass the stunning stained glass windows, the magnificent organ, the altar, and the pulpit. The stunning altar, embellished with figures of apostles, hails from the mid-17th century. On the southern side, you'll find the Düben organ, an impressive replica of the church's original instrument, which was later sold to a different church in northern Sweden. It is delightful to wander and take in the detailed interior features, like the elaborate carvings on the pulpit and the stunning paintings on the ceiling. The gathering occurs weekly on Sundays at 11 a.m., conducted in German. Moreover, you can choose to discover the church's interior at different times. Visit us during our operating hours: Fridays and Saturdays from 11am to 3pm and Sundays from 12:30pm to 4pm. A small fee is required for entry.
VÄSTERLÅNGGATAN
Upon your arrival at Västerlånggatan, you'll find yourself on the primary thoroughfare of the contemporary historic district. This street features an array of dining options, cosy cafes, charming gift shops, a store dedicated to Viking-themed items, and various attractions for visitors to explore. Moreover, you can find a Viking-themed eatery nestled in the basement. In this vibrant city, the residences are arranged neatly, with those nearest to the water serving as the abodes of the sellers.The base of these homes is constructed with wooden beams. Pause for a moment to gaze at the architecture that lines the street; even amidst your exploration of the quaint shops, it's worth taking a moment to appreciate the stunning buildings that surround you.During the period from 1000 to 1100, structures in the Romanesque style emerged throughout Europe, while in Sweden, this trend took hold around 1200 to 1300. The defining features of Romanesque architecture include sturdy walls, compact doorways and windows, and arches that are either fully rounded or subtly pointed. Romanesque architecture stands out with its unique features, unlike Gothic architecture, which is characterised by its pointed arches. In the 1970s, this street served as the primary shopping destination in Stockholm, especially if you were in search of a cosy coat for the chilly winter season. As we stroll along this lively avenue, we'll soon arrive at the city's narrowest street. To your left, a narrow gated entrance leads to the steps ahead. If you choose to ascend the steps, that's an option, but if you'd rather not, feel free to continue walking, staying to the left to connect with the next point along Österlånggatan after the square.
MÅRTEN TROTZIGS Gränd Steps
Mårten Trotzigs Gränd awaits your exploration. In the historic heart of Gamla Stan, the streets are so narrow that two people walking together can't help but feel a closeness as they navigate the charming pathways. The most narrow of them all is Mårten Trotzigs Gränd. This charming street, nestled in the centre of the historic city, links the two primary thoroughfares with a quaint staircase and a handful of lanterns gently hanging from the walls. At its most constricted section, it measures a mere 35 inches across, barely allowing the light to reach the wall on the other side. This thoroughfare honours the affluent German merchant, Mårten Trotzig. Who came to Stockholm in the 16th century and amassed a fortune through the sale of iron and copper, rising to become one of the city's richest individuals? He took over the area surrounding the quaint alley and established a shop in its current location. The path was unnamed back then but quickly took on his name. Be sure to take a moment to make a wish as you ascend. Upon reaching the summit, make a right turn as you descend the slope.
GYLDENE FREDEN
Golden Peace At the foot of the hill, you'll find a charming eatery known as "The Golden Peace". This venue boasts a fascinating past, having been in service since 1722, which positions it among the oldest continuously running dining establishments in Europe. The sign that hangs outside the restaurant has its origins in the 1700s. The sign features a maternal figure grasping a palm leaf in one hand and a scroll inscribed with the phrase "Golden Peace" in the other. Encircling the sign are lush vine leaves and shimmering golden grapes.The Golden Peace in the 1700s signified a time of peace for Sweden, following a succession of battles and military confrontations.In 1919, the restaurant faced the brink of shutting its doors. In a remarkable turn of events, the celebrated Swedish artist Anders Zorn stepped in to acquire the property, ultimately donating it to the Swedish Academy as a generous gesture.In the 1700s, Stockholm boasted at least 700 taverns and inns, equating to roughly one venue for every 100 people. The historic district featured a remarkable array of these venues, with no fewer than 10 located on this one street alone. Stockholm presented a challenging environment for its residents, as the living conditions left much to be desired. Three out of ten children did not make it through their first year, and the rate of death was similar to that found in cities like London and Paris.Pubs and lodgings offered a lively atmosphere where individuals could share tales and updates with one another. The restaurant is open to everyone and comes highly recommended for enjoying a meal or a drink while soaking in the delightful and authentic ambiance. Moreover, the Swedish Academy frequently utilises the restaurant, often booking a table for midday conversations about the Nobel Prize recipients. We will now embark on a journey along this winding and extensive path. The street lay on the outskirts of the last city fortification, with no clear traces of the wall visible today. As you wander along the street, the graceful lines of the buildings come into view.
ÖSTERLÅNGGATAN 37
The mansion showcases the wealth of the middle class in Stockholm from the 17th century and stands as a key element of the historic architecture in Gamla Stan. The house stands preserved, showcasing its original walls, beams, and truss construction from 1662. The house has maintained its unique charm since it was built, featuring the entrance, gateway, staircase, and an empty attic. Elements of the beautifully decorated interior from the 17th century still exist, whether it's on display or concealed beneath later layers.The plastered facade that greets you on Österlånggatan may be from a later period, yet it stands out for its centuries-old plaster, a rarity that captures the imagination. This aspect greatly elevates the worth of the structure. The entrance and staircase feature doors from the 17th and 18th centuries, with some having originated from various other homes.In the current apartments, a curated selection of vintage woodwork from the early 1800s is thoughtfully preserved, alongside a few tiled stoves from the 18th and 19th centuries.The property Callisto 3 has received a "blue" classification based on the cultural history criteria set by the Stockholm City Museum. As a result, it holds significant cultural and historical value. Above the entrance of number 37 on East Long Street, you'll find an inscription in Dutch that reads, "When things go well, we have many friends."Look up at the top of the doorway to spot another emblem. This emblem signifies the phoenix emerging from the ashes and was chosen as the symbol for the fire brigade in 1746, after a series of devastating fires that led to significant destruction of structures. A new law was put in place to create fire insurance. Individuals with the means would contribute a yearly payment to the fire brigade, ensuring their residences were protected in the event of a fire. You'll often find insurance plaques showcased above doorways throughout the historic district. These markers show that the property is protected from fire damage.In case of a fire, the team would focus on homes that have insurance protection. Consequently, the absence of insurance for a house significantly increased the likelihood of it being consumed by flames. The announcement of a fire in the Old Town was communicated through a range of signals and bells, each differing according to the precise spot where the blaze began.
STORA HOPAREGRÄND 6
As you proceed down the main street, keep an eye out for a quaint alleyway called Storhoppagrand, or "Large Hop Grand." As you stroll down this lane, keep an eye out for the residence marked with the number 6, which stands out above the entrance. The structure was built from 1585 to 1602, with later updates occurring in 1640 and 1747. The stair gable, with its charming mediaeval design, stands as one of the last remnants of the city's rich history. From 1818 to 1930, the upper floor was home to the draymen's team, with the merchant living just above them. It managed the movement and packaging of wine and spirits, and it functioned as Sweden's last guild office. The tools of the portal, known as the "log knife" and "suction straw," stand out as symbols. A drayman was someone responsible for transporting barrels from the port and preparing them for storage. These containers are often utilised to store various types of alcoholic drinks, including wine, beer, or spirits. Throughout the span from the Middle Ages to the 19th century, it was mandatory for every craftsman to be linked with a guild. An association formed by skilled artisans who practiced the same trade or craft. Having membership was essential for engaging in the profession. The Draymen represented Sweden's final guild, existing from the Middle Ages until the 1930s. The vessels in the harbour carried wine barrels to the city's wine vaults, designed to hold and distribute them efficiently. Above the entrance, you’ll find their symbol, featuring a knife and a straw. They employed a knife to pierce the barrels and utilised straws to draw out and assess the wine or beer.
ÖSTERLÅNGGATAN 29
29 ÖsterlånggatanFrom the 18th century until 1850, this location was home to a lively tavern or wine cellar, bustling with activity. In 1782, a young American named John Quincy Adams, who would eventually rise to the presidency, stayed in this home for a short span of two weeks during his travels from Russia to Holland. During his stay, Adams surely immersed himself in the local culture and hospitality, which must have been a refreshing change from his own experiences. This short stay not only signifies an interesting part of the building's past but also emphasises the links between America and Europe during that time.
St George and the Dragon
Make your way up the hill and stand before the statue of St George and the Dragon. There exist two St Georges, one being a mythical figure in a tale that illustrates the victory of virtue over malevolence. The other person probably resided in the Middle East circa 275 AD and faced persecution due to their faith. Both individuals are celebrated for their remarkable bravery and steadfast courage. Various cultures share their unique interpretations of the story of St George and the Dragon. The key aspect is his heroic endeavour to rescue a princess from a fearsome creature. Across the globe, you'll find a variety of statues, monuments, carvings, and paintings depicting the tale of St George and the Dragon, showcasing the story's renowned status and universal admiration. The portrayal of St George and the dragon illustrates the struggle between Sweden and Denmark. The statue depicts Sten Sture, a notable figure from the 1400s who triumphed over a Danish king. The artists behind the statue you see now crafted it in the 1900s. Inside the cathedral, you'll find the original wooden statue, notable for its size and recognised as the oldest wooden statue in Europe. The knight, sword held aloft, is not looking down at the dragon; instead, his focus is on the princess to his right. The princess embodies Sweden, whereas the dragon signifies Denmark. The original statue houses the relics of St George, which were sent from Rome to the church in Sweden.
KÖPMANGATAN 5 THE SUN DOGS
Walk along the lane until you meet a window on the left. In this shop window, you'll find a replica of a remarkable painting that proudly claims the title of the oldest colour painting in Stockholm, dating back to the 16th century. The English translation of the painting's name, Vädersolstavlan, is "The Sun Dog Painting." The painting was commissioned by Olof Petri, the priest who brought the Lutheran faith to Sweden. During that period, he wielded a degree of influence over King Gustav Vasa.The piece captures the essence of the island from the historic district, surrounded by wooden stilts rising from the water. The characteristics of this place might shed light on how Stockholm got its name, with "stocks" indicating the wooden stilts and "holm" signifying an island. Moreover, we can enjoy a stunning perspective of the Three Crowns Castle alongside the Great Church, which is perched at a slightly higher elevation than the Castle. This illustrated Olof Petri's point that the church ought to occupy a more elevated status than the monarch. Sun halos are enchanting circles of light that can be seen in the sky. They occur when ice particles form rings around the moon or sun, typically when the air temperature takes a dip. That evening, the sky displayed several sun halos, a sight that was quite rare. The priest saw this as a heavenly sign that the king was neglecting the significance of faith. The artwork can be found at the cathedral, but it's important to note that it is not an original piece; rather, it is believed to be a replica made in the late 1500s. Gaze across the street, and you'll discover a quaint little pathway waiting for you.
The Iron Boy
The iron Boy The Iron Boy A petite iron sculpture, created by the famous Swedish artist Liss Eriksson, measures 15 centimetres in height. This piece of art proudly claims the title of Sweden's tiniest public monument. A young boy, perhaps reflecting the artist's own youth, looks up at the moon in the night sky. Bathed in a warm glow, the sculpture captivates those who pass by, inviting them to leave tokens, small coins, and softly touch its head while whispering their hopes for a return to Stockholm.
The Church of Finland
The Finnish ChurchThe Charming Little Ball House, Before becoming the Finnish Church, this building was a hub for ball sports and a vibrant theatre space, welcoming numerous travelling German theatre companies. The initial opera performance was presented by Gustav III in this location. The Finnish congregation in Sweden is a vibrant and enduring community that has been engaging in activities in the Finnish language for many years. The sermons of the congregation have been delivered in both Finnish and Swedish for many centuries, but today, Finnish is the main language used for activities at this location. The transformation and aesthetic choices were envisioned by architect Göran Adelcrantz. Founded in 1725 as a site for spiritual gatherings. The organ is a remarkable creation by Olof Schwan from 1790, featuring twelve unique parts. Here, you can find the first translation of the Bible from Latin to Swedish.You are now back on the Palace hill dont forget to discover our other audio tours, such as the amazing Vasa ship tour or the Old naval island of Skeppsholmen
Finish tour on Palace Hill
Welcome to Stockholms Old town medieval history
The medieval period spans from the 1100 to the 1400s In the mediaeval town of Stockholm, the focal point of life revolved around the vibrant town square, where bustling markets thrived with merchants selling their goods. The city was characterised by its intricate network of cobblestone lanes, which were flanked by timber-framed dwellings and workshops where skilled craftsmen diligently pursued their trades.The villagers, adorned in modest woollen clothing, carried out their daily rituals of participating in religious ceremonies, collecting water from shared wells, and engaging in social activities at nearby taverns. Aromatic fragrances of newly baked bread emanated from the bakeries, while the resonating noise of metal striking metal reverberated from the blacksmith's forge.In spite of the difficulties encountered in their everyday lives, the mediaeval town of Stockholm flourished with a strong feeling of communal solidarity, where residents displayed a vigilant concern for each other's well-being and the streets were filled with jubilant festivities on special occasions. The mediaeval town of Stockholm was characterised by a rich tapestry of history, craftsmanship, and a deep sense of community.
