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Stockholm Audio Tours, we are passionate about sharing the rich history and culture of Stockholm with visitors from all over the world.Designed by a licensed professional Stockholm tour guide, Stockholm Audio Tours aims to bring the city's fascinating past to life through our tours. We believe that by learning about the history of a place, we can gain a deeper understanding of and appreciation for its present.This tour will take you through the charming historic district of Stockholm's Old Town. While exploring the captivating alleyways of Old Stockholm, you will gain knowledge about historical events, architectural marvels, the town's growth and development, and intriguing anecdotes. You will discover 20 fascinating locations and numerous recommendations for eateries, cafes, and additional attractions in the old town.The Old Town walking tour encompasses: An introduction to Stockholm's history On Palace Hill, the Royal Palace and statues are located. The Stockholm Cathedral Stortorget The market square commemorates historical events and showcases architectural features. Viking Rune Stone Priest Street, Prästgatan The German Church, St. Gertrudes Västerlånggatan (Western Long Street) Martin Trotszig takes his steps. Österlånggatan 4 points of interest (Eastern Long Street) The statue and historical background of St. George with the Dragon are worth exploring. The old commercial thoroughfare is home to the oldest painting in Stockholm. "The Iron Boy" is the name of the sculpture. The Finish Church Conclude the tour by returning to Palace Hill. Additional information about medieval Stockholm
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
Jean Baptiste Bernadotte, born on January 26, 1763, in Pau, France, served as a Marshal of France during the time of Napoleon Bonaparte. He gained recognition for his prowess in military command and his skill in diplomacy. He assumed the throne as King Charles XIV John of Sweden and Norway in 1810. Bernadotte founded the Bernadotte dynasty, which continues to rule Sweden today. He exerted a substantial influence on Swedish history through his efforts to modernize the nation and advance social and economic reforms. Bernadotte's reign is renowned for his unwavering dedication to fostering peace and maintaining a stance of neutrality throughout Europe. He ascended to the throne of Sweden after King Charles XIII and established the present royal dynasty as a member of the House of Bernadotte. King Carl XIV Johan exerted a substantial influence on Swedish history, molding the monarchy and serving as a representative of Sweden both at home and abroad.In 1798, Jean Baptiste Bernadotte married Désirée Clary. Previously engaged to Napoleon Bonaparte, Désirée Clary eventually became Queen Desideria of Sweden. Oscar I was the only child born to Jean Baptiste Bernadotte and Désirée Clary. Subsequently, he became the monarch of Sweden and Norway, holding his reign from 1844 to 1859.
Palace Hill Stockholms Cathedral
The Stockholm Cathedral, then known as St. Nicholas but now known as Storkyrkan, was established in the 13th century. Originally serving as the primary church for the village, it was a modest wooden structure. However, as missionaries and monks from Rome arrived, new construction techniques became available. After a devastating fire, they rebuilt the church using stone, likely adding two small spires, a doorway, and windows. The church occupies the highest elevation on Old Town Island.During the 1400s, seafarers revered St. Nicolas as their patron saint, and he enjoyed immense popularity. Nearly 3000 churches in Italy, France, and Germany dedicated themselves to him, demonstrating his immense popularity. His legend spread far and wide, with seafarers, merchants, and fishermen depicting St. Nicholas on their ships and boats as a symbol of protection during stormy weather. During the medieval era, he gained significant fame, which led to his continued celebration of his death anniversary long after his passing. This anniversary falls on December 6, and on the eve of this occasion, children would get modest presents. In modern times, we recognize him as Santa Claus.Over the course of its 700-year existence, the cathedral has been a silent observer of numerous significant historical events. Since the establishment of the Roman Catholic Church, various significant events have occurred in Sweden, including plagues, the Black Death, fires, raids, coronations of monarchs, weddings, victories, and the first Swedish mass conducted in the Swedish language.Magnus the Sixth and Blanche of Namur held the inaugural royal coronation at Storkyrkan in 1336. However, the majority of mediaeval coronations took place at Uppsala Cathedral, which is located north of Stockholm.King Oscar II was the most recent Swedish king to be coronated in 1873 at Storkyrkan.On November 4, 1521, King Christian coronated Christian II of Denmark in a church ceremony, symbolising Sweden's acceptance under his authority. On occasion, envoys from Emperor Charles V bestowed the prestigious Order of the Golden Fleece upon the king. Shortly thereafter, the Stockholm bloodbath occurred.In 2010, Storkyrkan hosted the marriage ceremony of Victoria, Crown Princess of Sweden, and Daniel Westling.Storkyrkan has only occasionally served as a king's burial church. Instead, Riddarholmen Church fulfilled that role until 1950.People frequently used the church to commemorate military victories. The 1700s celebrated one of the most prominent military triumphs. The Battle of Narva commemorates the conclusion of the 30-year Northern War, during which Sweden successfully repelled formidable Russian forces at Narva.Following the Estonian disaster in 1994, the Swedish Prime Minister and the Royal Family graced the church for a commemorative ceremony.The statue situated in front of the cathedral depicts Olof Petri, the individual credited with introducing the new religious movement to Sweden, which ultimately led to the reformation during the 1500s. Martin Luther's introduction of a new Bible in Germany led to the emergence of the new religion. Petri, recognised for his courage, integrity, and audacity, was a highly productive writer. He and his brothers are most renowned for their translation of the Latin Bible into the Swedish language, which enabled people to comprehend the teachings of God. They also brought the Swedish written language to its present state.The primary construction materials employed in the cathedral's construction include brick, sandstone, and granite. The cathedral has a height of 63 metres and a width of 37.2 metres. The architectural style of the church is consistently baroque. The interior brick arches and certain windows reveal the building's original Gothic architectural style.The church's exterior underwent significant alterations in the 18th century.The mediaeval exterior underwent a total transformation, adopting a Baroque style.Nicodemus Tessin the Younger proposed a renovation of the facade to give it a more modern appearance.They hired Johan Eberhard Carlberg in 1736 to oversee the restoration of the church tower. In a relatively short period of time, the commission underwent significant expansion, involving a complete renovation of the exterior and the addition of a new tower spire.The original baroque color of the cathedral, a shade of salmon pink, has just undergone restoration.While Einar Forseth created some stained glass windows during the 20th century, the majority of the windows in the North West section are transparent. A rose window, generously donated and crafted in France, graces the east side of the church.The church is directly south of the courtyard. The backs of the stock exchange buildings are visible across from the courtyard. Erik Palmstedt's design transformed two modest pavilions, originally intended to be wings of the stock market, into the burial chapel and coachhouse of the church. The structures were constructed in 1767.Walls border the courtyard to the west and east, and wrought iron gates serve as entrances. Allegorical figures originally adorned both gates, but only the statues on the west entrance remain.Peter Schultz crafted the two statues in 1675, most likely representing reason on the south pillar and divine love on the north post.Interior I highly recommend visiting the interior of the church. Please note that there is an entrance fee. The church contains several noteworthy historical aspects.St. George and the Dragon, a late medieval equestrian figure, holds the distinction of being Europe's oldest wooden statue.The church received a gift of the silver altarpiece, a portrait, in 1652.The earliest known color depiction of Stockholm is the sun dog painting, which dates back to the 1500s.The image depicts royal seating and podiums.Tombstones and grave memorialsThe organ dates back to 1960.The church painting also displays Europe's oldest votive wooden ship model, suspended from above.During the mediaeval period, someone generously donated a cast iron candelabra that dates back to the 1400s.The church measures 5 bays in width and 8 bays in length, with brick vaults and pillars dating back to the medieval era.
The Market Square
Located in the heart of Stockholm's Old Town (Gamla Stan), the Old Market Square is a well-known public space with a rich historical legacy that dates back to the 13th century. The oldest plaza in Stockholm, Stortorget was established in the middle of the 1200s and has been a major hub for trade, celebrations, and political gatherings for many years.Both locals and visitors are drawn to the old market square a bustling plaza full of cafes and restaurants and charming cobblestone alleys. A must-see for tourists hoping to properly appreciate Stockholm's cultural legacy.
VIKING RUNE STONE
The location of the Rune stone is is at the intersection of Priest Street and Kåkbrinken You can see the stone with inscriptions incorporated into the lower wall. The stone, which is now broken, was erected in the Viking era by Torsten and Frögunn in memory of their son. The Stone is most likely from the Uppland area of Sweden, north of StockholmThe stone was used as a construction material during the house's construction. It is possible that the stone was discovered damaged in a location outside the city and subsequently transported here along with other building supplies.Upon close examination of the stone, one may observe the presence of a blue tooth embedded inside the stone's inscriptions. This icon is really a reference to the renowned Viking leader, Hearld Blue Tooth the Great, who gained the name Blue Tooth due to his consumption of copious amounts of blueberries from the surrounding woodlands, resulting in a distinct blue hue on his teeth.Rune stones have origins in the Viking era, and this particular stone is estimated to be more than 1000 years old, predating the Old Town These memorial stones were widespread in Scandinavia and even reached as far as present-day TehranLocated in the corner of the street junction is an old cannon barrel dating back to the 17th century. The objective of its task was to safeguard the wall as navigating through the narrow streets with horse and carts posed a challenge, and the corners were prone to damage.Looking to the other side of the street, up the narrow street of priest Street, you can look up and observe winch arms extending from the rooftops of houses, suspended over the street. With the help of blocks, pulleys and ropes, heavy goods could be lifted up. Today, many attics have been converted into homes and the warehouse hatches have been converted into windows.Priest street is where the priests lived, On the north side were the Swedish priest and clergy for the cathedral, and the south side were the German Priests
PRIEST STREET
During the medieval era, a gateway leading into the fortified city existed at this specific location on the street. When you arrive at Priest Street, number 48, you will notice three houses that are slightly lower in height than the majority of the houses. This architectural style was common during the Middle Ages. The stone structures were constructed from durable burnet red brick, which had larger dimensions compared to modern bricks. Additionally, the bricklaying technique was unique, placing every third brick vertically. The floor joists and outer walls in the old town received support from the visible iron rods on their exteriors. The blacksmith fashioned the ends of these iron rods into various designs, allowing examination to determine the age of the buildings. Continue walking along the street until you reach Tyskabrinken, often known as the German Hill.Around 50% of the city's population during the medieval era were German traders and merchants, and the remaining 50% were Swedish citizens. The Germans influenced the city's architecture and brought new skills to the area.
The German Church St Gertrudes
The church at Gamla Stan is situated in a neighbourhood that was mostly inhabited by Germans during the Middle Ages. This was attributed to the dominance of the Hanseatic League, primarily composed of German merchants, who held significant control over trade in the Baltic region during this period. Consequently, many of these merchants resided in Hanseatic ports, such as Stockholm. Due to their high socioeconomic status, these merchants had numerous additional privileges. Prior to its consecration in 1842, the land where the church stands was occupied by the German Guild of St Gertrud.When you go to Stockholm, you will definitely come across the German Church (Tyska kyrkan)... or at the at least, its spire, which is the most prominent feature of the Gamla Stan skyline. Visitors often mistake this building for the major Stockholm cathedral since it is taller than Storkyrkan and has a more conventional church-like appearance, with a slender copper spire that reaches a height of 96 metres. The church is alternatively referred to as St. Gertrud's Church and is specifically devoted to the veneration of the German saint.The church's design, characterised by its vaults and ceilings, is aesthetically pleasing. Notable features include the exquisite stained glass windows, the grand organ, the altar, and the pulpit. The exquisite altar, adorned with sculptures of apostles, dates back to the mid-17th century. Located on the southern side, the Düben organ is a remarkable reproduction of the church's original organ, which was subsequently sold to another church in northern Sweden. It is pleasant to leisurely stroll and appreciate the intricate interior elements, such as the ornate carvings on the pulpit and the exquisite paintings on the ceiling.The church service takes place every Sunday at 11am in the German language. Additionally, you have the option to explore the church's interior during alternative hours. The current operating hours are from 11am to 3pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and from 12:30pm to 4pm on Sundays. There is a nominal admission fee.
VÄSTERLÅNGGATAN
Once you arrive there, you'll be on the main road of the modern historic area. Several restaurants, cafes, gift shops, a store selling Viking merchandise, and other attractions for tourists may be found along this street. In addition , you'll find a Viking-themed eatery in the basement. In the mediaeval city, the homes are lined up in an orderly manner, with the ones closest to the water housing the sellers. The foundation of these houses is made of wooden supports. Take a moment to look up at the buildings that border the street; even if you're busy visiting the little shops, you should take amount to admire the building that flank the street.In the years 1000–1100, Romanesque style buildings sprung up over Europe, and in Sweden, it was around 1200–1300. Robust walls, small doorways and windows, and arches that are either completely round or slightly pointed (the round arch type) are the hallmarks of Romanesque architecture. Romanesque architecture is distinct from Gothic architecture, which is defined by pointed arches.During the 1970s this street was the main shopping street in Stockholm and if you were looking for a warm coat for those winter monthsAs we meander down this bustling avenue, we'll eventually reach the city's narrowest street.
MÅRTEN TROTZIGS Gränd Steps
Mårten Trotzigs Gränd.Some of the historic streets of Gamla Stan are so small that two people cannot walk shoulder to shoulder without feeling intimate. The narrowest of all is Mårten Trotzigs Gränd.This street, located in the heart of the mediaeval city, connects the two main roads with a narrow staircase and a few lanterns suspended from the wall. At its narrowest point, it is only 35 inches wide, just enough to keep the illumination from touching the opposite wall.The street is named after the wealthy German trader, Mårten Trotzig. Who arrived to Stockholm in the 16th century and made a fortune selling iron and copper, becoming one of the city's wealthiest men. He acquired the space encompassing the small alleyway and set up a store there. The lane had no name at that time but was swiftly christened after him.Dont forget to make a wish on the way upOnce at the top take a right turn down the hill
GYLDENE FREDEN
Gyldene FredenLocated near the base of the hill, there is a restaurant known as "The Golden Peace." This establishment has a rich history, as it has been in operation since 1722, making it one of the oldest continuously operating restaurants in Europe. The restaurant's hanging sign also dates back to the 1700s. The sign depicts a mother figure holding a palm leaf in one hand and a scroll with the words "Golden Peace" in the other hand. Surrounding the sign are vine leaves and golden grapes. The Golden Peace in the 1700s marked a period of peace for Sweden as it emerged from a series of conflicts and military engagements.The restaurant was on the verge of closure in 1919. However, the renowned Swedish artist Anders Zone intervened by purchasing the property and generously gifting it to the Swedish Academy.During the 1700s, Stockholm had a minimum of 700 taverns and inns, which translates to around one establishment for every 100 individuals. The old town area concentrated a significant number of these establishments, with at least 10 on this particular street alone.Stockholm was an inhospitable city to reside in, as the living circumstances were unfavorable. 30% of children did not survive past their first year, and the mortality rate was comparable to that of places like London and Paris. Taverns and inns provided both entertainment and a social environment for people to exchange stories and news. Currently, the restaurant is accessible to the general public and highly recommended for both dining and drinking while appreciating the charming and genuine atmosphere. Additionally, the Swedish Academy uses the restaurant and often reserves a table for lunchtime discussions regarding the recipients of the Nobel Prize.We will now proceed to traverse this lengthy and meandering thoroughfare. The street was located on the periphery of the final city fortification, with no obvious remnants of the wall remaining at present. However, as you stroll down the street, you can see the architectural curve of the buildings.
ÖSTERLÅNGGATAN 37
37 Österlånggatan The mansion exemplifies the affluent middle class in Stockholm during the 17th century and is an integral feature of Gamla Stan's historic architecture. The house is completely intact, with its walls, beams, and truss construction retained since 1662. The character of the house, including the entryway, gateway, stairs, and unfurnished attic, has been preserved since its creation. Components ofThe adorned interior of the 17th century is also conserved, either visible or concealed beneath subsequent levels. The plastered facade facing Österlånggatan is from a later time, but it is remarkable due to its centuries-old plaster, which is highly uncommon. This significantly enhances the value of the building.The gateway and stairwell have door leaves dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, some of which were originally from different houses. Within the present-day flats, a small collection of antique carpentry from the early 19th century is carefully maintained, together with a handful of tile stoves dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries.The property Callisto 3 has been classified as "blue" according to the cultural history classification of the Stockholm City Museum. Consequently, it possesses a very substantial cultural-historical worth.The inscription above the portal of number 37 on East Long Street is written in Dutch and translates to "When things go well, we have many friends." Direct your gaze towards the upper part of the doorway to identify an additional emblem. This symbol represents the Phoenix rising from the ashes and was adopted as the emblem for the Fire Brigade in 1746, following numerous fires that caused extensive damage to buildings. As a result, a new law was enacted to establish fire insurance. Those who could afford it paid an annual fee to the Fire Brigade, which provided coverage for their homes in case of fire. Insurance plaques are commonly displayed above doorways in the old town. These plaques indicate that the property is insured against fire damage. In the event of a fire, the Fire Brigade would prioritise houses with insurance coverage. Therefore, if a house was not insured, there was a higher risk of it being destroyed by fire. The occurrence of a fire in the Old town was conveyed through various signals and bells, which varied based on the specific location where the fire originated.
STORA HOPAREGRÄND 6
You will encounter a narrow alleyway named "Large Hop Grand" as you continue along the main street. Within this lane, there is a residence with the number 6 prominently displayed over the entrance. The building's construction took place between 1585 and 1602, with subsequent renovations around 1640 and 1747. The mediaeval-style stair gable is one of the few remaining structures in the city. Between 1818 and 1930, the draymen team occupied the upper floor, while the merchant resided above it. It oversaw the transportation and packaging of wine and spirits, and it served as Sweden's final guild office. The portal's tools, "log knife" and "suction straw," are emblematic. A drayman was a person who had the task of hauling barrels from the port and making them ready for storage. These barrels are commonly used to hold alcoholic beverages such as wine, beer, or spirits. From the Middle Ages to the 19th century, it was compulsory for all craftsmen to be associated with a guild. A guild was an association of skilled craftsmen engaged in the same trade or craft. Possessing membership was a necessary requirement for participating in the profession. The Draymen were Sweden's last guild, spanning from the Middle Ages to the 1930s. The Ships in the harbor transported the wine barrels to city wine vaults, which had the capacity to store and distribute wOver the entrance stands their emblem, which consists of a knife and straw. They used a knife to puncture the barrels and straws to extract and evaluate the wine or beer.
ÖSTERLÅNGGATAN 29
29 ÖsterlånggatanFrom the 18th century until 1850, a tavern or wine cellar was in operation on the premises.In 1782, John Quincy Adams, a young American who would later become president, resided in the home for a brief period of two weeks while journeying from Russia to Holland.
St George and the Dragon
Ascend the hill and position yourself in front of the statue of St. George and the Dragon. There are two St. George's, one of which is a legendary character in a story that depicts the triumph of righteousness over evil. The other individual likely lived in the Middle East around 275 AD and experienced persecution because of his religious beliefs. People widely recognize both individuals for their extraordinary bravery and unshakable courage. Different cultures retell the tale of St. George and the Dragon in various ways. The important element is his act of saving a princess from a formidable beast. Numerous examples of St. George and the Dragon statues, monuments, carvings, and paintings found across the world demonstrate the narrative's global reputation and widespread praise. In this particular case, the depiction of St. George and the dragon serves as a representation of the conflict between Sweden and Denmark. The equestrian figure is known as Sten Sture, who was a prominent individual in the 1400s and successfully overcame a Danish monarch. The sculptors created the statue you're currently viewing in the 1900s. However, within the cathedral, there exists the original wooden statue, which is of a similar size and holds the distinction of being the oldest wooden statue in Europe. With his sword raised high, the knight is not gazing downward at the dragon, but rather directing his attention towards the princess positioned to the right. The princess represents Sweden, while the dragon symbolizes Denmark. The original statue encloses the relics of St. George, sent from Rome to the church in Sweden.
KÖPMANGATAN 5 THE SUN DOGS
Displayed in this shop window is a replica of a painting that holds the title of being the oldest colour painting in Stockholm, originating from the 16th century. The painting is referred to as Vädersolstavlan, which translates to "The Sun Dog Painting" in English. The commission was given by Olof Petri, the priest who brought the Lutheran religion to Sweden. At that time, he held some influence over King Gustav Vasa. The artwork depicts the island of the old town, which is encircled by wooden stilts in the water. This may explain why Stockholm acquired its name, as "stocks" refers to the wooden stilts and "holm" refers to an island.Additionally, we have a clear view of the Three Crowns Castle and the Great Church, with the latter being situated at a slightly higher elevation than the Castle. This exemplified Olofs Petri's argument that the church should hold a higher position than the monarch. Sun halos are circles of light observed in the sky, caused by the formation of ice particles in rings around the moon or sun when the air temperature drops.That night, there were multiple sun haloes , which was rather uncommon. The priest interpreted this as a divine indication that the King was not giving enough importance to religion.The artwork is on display at the cathedral, although it is not an authentic piece and is thought to be a replica created in the late 1500s.Now look to the otherside of the street , where you will find a narrow passageway known as Way Olof Skeppar Grand . Proceed through this lane to reach your final stops in a court yard.
The Iron Boy
The iron Boy The small iron sculpture, crafted by renowned Swedish sculptor Liss Eriksson, stands at a height of 15 centimetres. This artwork holds the distinction of being Sweden's smallest public monument. It portrays a young boy, possibly the artist himself, gazing skyward at the moon during nighttime. Illuminated by a spotlight, the sculpture serves as a focal point for visitors who leave tokens, small coins, and gently stroke its head while making wishes for a return to Stockholm.
The Church of Finland
The Church of FinlandThe Little Ball House, Prior to its transformation into the Finnish Church, the building served as a sports facility for ball sports and also as a theatre venue, hosting various travelling German theatre companies. The first Opera was held here when Gustav the third held a production here.The Finnish congregation in Sweden is a long-standing and resilient institution that has been conducting activities in the Finnish language for many years. The congregation's sermons were conducted in both Finnish and Swedish for several centuries, but currently, the primary language used for the activities is Finnish., serves as the current location. The remodelling and interior design were conceived by architect Göran Adelcrantz. Established in 1725 as a place of worship. An exceptional instrument created by Olof Schwan in 1790, consisting of twelve distinct components. Returned to its initial state.The first Translation of the bible from latin to Swedish is also housed here.
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.
