Riddarholmen (The Knight’s Islet) is a small islet in central Stockholm, and it is a part of the old town Gamla Stan. The first buildings were built there, and it is famous for the church Riddarholmskyrkan. The island was initially named "Grey Monks Islet". By the order of King Gustav Vasa, the temple on the island was closed down, and later almost all the buildings were demolished. Today, there are only some remains left, and the most significant are the church and palaces from the 17th century.
There are also Stockholm’s roots from the Middle Ages. In the present day, there are only 16 buildings on the island, and each of them represents or possesses an important architectural monument. The last remaining citizen left the island in 2010, so today it is uninhabited. The church Riddarholmskyrkan is the oldest building in Stockholm. This church is related with the bridge of the same name in nearby city on Stadsholmen island. The name of the bridge translates as “A bridge on small knight’s island”. The island is less than one hectare in size. The church Riddarholmskyrkan was built in 1280, and it is burial place of some royal family members. This is the oldest Medieval church in the Kingdom, where only memorials are held.
The old Parliament building is also on the island, it was built in 1700, and eastern grammar school wing was built in 1640 – it consists of parts of the old temple. Today, the Administrative Court is located here. The Western Grammar School building (built in 1800) is also located here in which the Chamber of Freedom of Trade operates. The Wrangel Palace is the most beautiful building in Stockholm. It used to be the residing place for the royal family, and today the Appellate Court is located here. The Stenbock Palace is also located on the island, the place where the first meeting of Masons was held in 1735. Today, the Supreme Administrative Court is located here. There is also Pawnshop building, where the poor could take out a loan. The Birger Jarl Tower, the Roshen Palace, the Norstedt Building are only a few of the place that must be visited on the island.
The island attracts tourists with its buildings, architecture and history. It is definitely worth visiting.
Ticket price for Riddarholmen Church
Regular ticket price: 5 €
Reduced ticket price: 2 € - for children from 7 to 15 years
Free entrance for children up to 7 years.
Working hours of Riddarholmen Church
Riddarholmen Church is open to visitors only during the summer season. Working hours: from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Author of the article:
Maja Glavaš, tour guide
Contact: [email protected]; instagram: travel_europe1
