When discussing Stockholm’s landmarks, it is important to highlight those that are situated in the very heart of the city. Stockholm is one of the biggest and best preserved ancient European cities. Its most important landmarks are: Gamla Stan, which is the city center, the City Hall, the Royal Theater, the Church of Saint Nicholas and many other attractions.
Gamla Stan / The Old Town is the oldest part of Stockholm, one of the biggest and the best preserved old European cities. It was in this very place in 1252 that the city of Stockholm was founded. The whole Gamla Stan resembles a lively pedestrian museum that abounds with sights, various attractions, restaurants and cafés, interesting bars and souvenir shops and shopping corners. Gamla Stan is popular among aficionados of handicrafts and various hand-made souvenirs. The streets in this area are narrow, winding, and the cobblestone pavement gives this place a romantic tone which everybody should experience.
The City Hall is one of the most significant buildings in Stockholm, and it is also one of the most visited tourist-sights in the city. It is located at the very entrance of Gamla Stan. It is famous for its congress halls and unique works of art. The City Halls represent a fine example of contemporary architecture. It is built in Italian renaissance style and it was finished in 1923. Eight million bricks were used for the construction. The national coat of arms of Sweden can be seen on the tower, 106 meters high. In this very building, in the Golden Hall, the Nobel Prize ceremony is held on 10 December every year. In the Golden Hall, there is a mosaic consisting of 18 million golden tiles.
The Royal Palace attracts a large number of visitors. The magnificent building located in Gamla Stan will attract all of your attention. This is one of the biggest palaces in Europe. The Royal Palace in Stockholm is the residence of His Majesty the King of Sweden and the place is the setting for monarchy’s official receptions. It was built in the Middle Ages, but it was destroyed in a fire that took place at the end of the 12th century. A new palace that has not had many changes was built after the Great Northern War.
The Church of Saint Nicholas is considered the oldest stone building in Stockholm, built in 1264. There is a grand hall, high vaults and a number of benches for believers. The Church of Saint Nicholas is the main cathedral in the country, and to this day, the coronation of Swedes monarch has been held there. The church is decorated for certain holidays, but in a specific way. For example, there are displays from the Bible during Christmas holidays. At times, there are organ music concerts which are special because they contribute to a certain atmosphere.
Among many attractions in Stockholm, the Royal Dramatic Theatre deserves close attention. It was founded by King Gustav III and his protégé Erm Armfelt in 1788. In the beginning, plays were only performed in Swedish, and later in English, French, and other languages. Comedies, operettas and plays were often performed at royal weddings. Until the beginning of the 20th century, the theater was significantly dilapidated, so the final play on the stage was held on 14 June, 1907. Reconstruction began in the following year, 1908.
