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| STOCKHOLM TRAVEL GUIDE Stockholm is the largest city and capital of Sweden. It is the site of the national Swedish government, the parliament, and the official residence of the Swedish monarch. Stockholm has been the political and economic centre of Sweden since the 13th century. Today Stockholm Municipality is the largest of the municipalities of Sweden, with a population of 792,593 (September 2007), and Stockholm urban area with a population of 1,252,000 is Sweden's largest continuously built-up area. The metropolitan area of Stockholm has a population of 1,942,233 (September 2007). Its strategic location on several islands on the east coast of Sweden at the mouth of Lake Mälaren, by the Stockholm archipelago, has been historically important. Stockholm is not the oldest town in Sweden, but after its establishment in the 1250s it rapidly became a national centre, with its strategic location between the lake Mälaren and the Baltic Sea. The city is in almost every respect the most important city in Sweden, even though more peripheral regions feel they survive quite well without the political centralism exerted by the capital. The city contains buildings from all ages since the 15th century. Particularly between 1955 and 1975, hundreds of older buildings were demolished in a large-scale modernization process, encouraged by similar projects in other European cities. Since then, little has changed in the architecture of central Stockholm. Sweden's beautiful capital has a picturesque setting that makes the city unique. The difference between seasons is quite large, the summers green with mild nights, and the winters dark, cold, often snowy, and with millions of Christmas candles in the windows. The location appears in Norse sagas as Agnafit, and especially in connection with the legendary king Agne. The earliest mention of Stockholm in writing, however, dates from 1252, when the mines in Bergslagen made it an important site in the iron trade. The first part of the name (stock) means log, while the second (holm) means islet, and is thought to refer to the islet Helgeandsholmen in central Stockholm. The city is said to have been founded by Birger Jarl in order to protect Sweden from a sea invasion by foreign navies, and to stop the pillage of towns such as Sigtuna on Lake Mälaren. The strategic and economic importance of the city made Stockholm an important factor in relations between the Danish Kings of the Kalmar Union and the national independence movement in the 15th century. The Danish King Christian II was able to enter the city in 1520. On November 8, 1520, massive executions of opposition figures, called the Stockholm Bloodbath, took place. This massacre set off further uprisings, which eventually led to the break-up of the Kalmar Union. With the accession of Gustav Vasa in 1523 and the establishment of a royal power, the population of Stockholm began to grow, reaching ten thousand by 1600. The 17th century saw Sweden rise into a major European power, reflected in the development of the city of Stockholm. From 1610 to 1680, the population multiplied sixfold. In 1634, Stockholm became the official capital of the Swedish empire. Trading rules were also created that gave Stockholm an essential monopoly over trade between foreign merchants and other Swedish and Scandinavian territories. Between 1713–1714, Stockholm suffered from the Black Death. After the end of the Great Northern War and the destruction of several areas of the city in 1721, the city stagnated. Population growth halted and economic growth slowed. However, Stockholm maintained its role as the political centre of Sweden and continued to develop culturally under Gustav III. The royal opera is a good architectural example of this era. By the second half of the 19th century, Stockholm had regained its leading economic role. New industries emerged, and Stockholm transformed into an important trade and service centre, as well as a key gateway point within Sweden. The population also grew radically during this time, mainly through immigration. At the end of the century, less than 40% of the residents were Stockholm-born. Settlement began to expand outside of the city limits. In the 19th century, a number of scientific institutes opened in Stockholm, including the Karolinska Institute, and the General Art and Industrial Exposition was held in 1897. During the latter half of the 20th century, Stockholm became a modern, technologically- advanced, and ethnically diverse city. Many historical buildings were torn down, including the entire historical district of Klara, and replaced with modern architecture. Throughout the century, many industries shifted away from work-intensive activities into more high- technology and service-industry areas. The city continued to expand and new districts were created, such as Rinkeby, and Tensta, some with high proportions of immigrants. GENERAL INFORMATION Country Sweden Municipalities 11 County Stockholm Province Södermanland and Uppland Charter 13th century Population 792,593 Density 4,160/km² (10,774.4/sq mi) PLACE TO VISIT The Stockholm archipelago - is one of the world's most spectacular. Stretching 80 kilometres east of the city, the archipelago comprises 24 000 islands, islets and rocks. Several ferry lines and package tours are available. Most ferries are operated by Waxholmsbolaget and depart from Strömkajen, opposite the Royal Palace. During the summer you can also use Strömma Kanalbolaget with faster and more modern ships, departing from Nybrokajen (by Strandvägen). Many will pass the picturesque town of Vaxholm, on the mainland to the northeast of the city, well worth a stopover if you have the time. The islands offer a wide variety of nature, from the lush green of the inner archipelago to the bare cliffs of the more distant outposts. The Royal Palace - Built between 1697 and 1754 and located on the east side of the Old Town, the Royal Palace is open to the public. Tickets to The Royal Apartments, the Tre Kronor Museum, the Treasury, and Gustav III's Museum of Antiquities cost 70 SEK each, with the sumptuous Apartments being the main draw; if royal regalia is your thing, you'll probably want to pay 110 SEK for a combination ticket and visit the Treasury as well. Stockholm City Hall - The city hall, where the Nobel Prize Banquet takes place every year, is an imposing brick building in the city centre. Guided tours are held daily, and allow you to see the impressive halls used for the Nobel festivities, the Blue Hall and the Golden Hall. Stockholm Public Library - Built in 1928 and designed by the famous Swedish architect Erik Gunnar Asplund, the interior of the cylinder-shaped main hall is spectacular, with three floors of bookshelves covering 360 degrees of circular wall. Books (both fiction and non-fiction) are available in many different languages, including English and German. On the cliff overlooking it is the old Observatory, which has a fine view of the city to the east. There is a small cafe. Stockholm Globe Arena - Located just south of Södermalm, the giant white sphere that is "the Globe" has been one of the most eye-catching features of the Stockholm skyline since its inauguration in 1989. The 16,000-seat arena claims the title as the world’s largest spherical building. It is frequently used for ice hockey games (se Do/Sports below) but is also used for other sporting events, as well as concerts and galas. Guided tours are currently available for groups only, by prior arrangement. Storkyrkan - is the oldest church in Gamla Stan. Originating as a 13th century Gothic structure, the exterior was remodelled in Baroque style around 1740. The church is the seat of the Church of Sweden bishop of Stockholm. It contains two pieces of famous artwork: the 15th century wooden statue of Saint George and a copy of the oldest known image of Stockholm, Vädersolstavlan ("The Sun Dog Painting"), a 1632 copy of a lost original from 1535. Riddarholmskyrkan - is one of Stockholms most beautiful churches, and the only remaining medieval abbey. The structure dates back to the late 14th century. In the church, many Swedish regents are buried, including Gustav II Adolf and Karl XII. Adults 30 SEK, children 7-18 10 SEK. Katarina kyrka - ("Church of Catherine"), named after Princess Catherine, mother of king Charles X of Sweden, can be seen from many parts of central Stockholm from its location on a Södermalm hill. The church was built 1656–1695 and has been rebuilt twice after being destroyed by fires. After the first fire, in 1723, the church was given a larger, octagonal tower. Following a new fire in May 1990 which left almost nothing but the external walls, the church was faithfully reconstructed and reopened in 1995. Several notable Swedes are buried in the cemetery. The most well-known is former Foreign Minister Anna Lindh, who was assassinated in 2003. Adolf Fredriks kyrka - named after King Adolf Fredrik, was built in 1768-1774. The exterior is quite intact while the interior was radically changed in the 1890s. In the church there is a monument to the philosopher Cartesius, who died in Stockholm. Today, the church is probably most known for the burial place of former prime minister Olof Palme, who was assasinated on Sveavägen not far from the church. The grave can be found just to the south of the church building. Bromma kyrka - in the western suburbs, is one of the oldest in Stockholm. It has also been voted the city's most beautiful. The oldest part was built as a round church in the second half of the 12th century. The church contains medieval paintings from the late 15th century. Kaknästornet - The 155-metre TV tower, east of central Stockholm, offers a different kind of panorama from its viewing gallery. Adults 30 SEK, children 7-15 15 SEK. Vasamuseet - The Vasa Museum features Vasa, an original warship from 1628 which sank just after being launched. Retrieved from the water in 1961, the ship is almost wholly preserved and unique in the world. A must-see, especially since it is uncertain whether current methods of preservation will be able to maintain her condition in years to come. Adults 80 SEK, children up to 17 free. There are adequate lifts to enable those less physically fit to see all levels of the ship. Skansen - The first open-air museum in the world, as well as a zoological garden specializing in Nordic fauna, such as moose, reindeer, bear, wolf, lynx and wolverine. Located on the island of Djurgården it features over 150 historic buildings from previous centuries. Hosts and hostesses in historic costumes are a further attraction, and domestic occupations such as weaving, spinning, and glass blowing are demonstrated. There is also an "aquarium" [33] (not included in the entrance fee) with lemurs, monkeys, snakes, spiders, fish and Cuban Crocodiles. Adults 90 SEK June-August, lower other times of the year. The aquarium: Adults 75 SEK. Historiska Museet - If you're interested in older Scandinavian history, from the Stone Age to the Vikings, you will want to visit The Museum of History. In the Gold Room, you'll find gold treasures from the Bronze Age to the 16th century. (If you're really interested in all things Viking, you might also want to consider a boat trip to the Viking town of Birka WHAT TO DO Walking - Stockholm is a city easily enjoyed by foot, with rather few steep streets. Walk around, and be sure to enjoy the beautiful panoramas, either from the wiewpoints iisted in the See section, or from one of the bars and restaurants with good views: Gondolen, Herman's or the penthouse lounge of Sjöfartshotellet on Södermalm, or the SAS Radisson Hotel Skybar on Norrmalm. Swimming - You are never far from water in Stockholm. There are several beaches in the inner city. They might be crowded when Swedish people have time off, but you will surely find some place. Storkyrkobadet - A small secret hidden in what once was a wine cellar in the old town, where you can take a bath under 18th century vaults. Note that men and women cannot visit the bath together. Adults 40 SEK, includes entrance to pool and sauna. Sturebadet - Considering the fact that the entrance is located in the exclusive Östermalm shopping center Sturegallerian, it is hardly a surprise that Sturebadet is the most exclusive spa in central Stockholm. For those who can afford it, this place offers luxury in a listed 1880s building (faithfully reconstructed after a fire in 1985). 495 SEK (395 SEK M-Th 1 PM-4 PM) includes rented towel, robe and slippers, and entrance to pool, spa-section, gym and saunas. Most spa treatments 540 SEK and upwards. Sports - Stockholm is home to several elite sports teams, and if you're a sports fan you might want to watch a game. The most popular spectator sports are football (soccer) and ice hockey. Also, bandy has something of a cult following. Tickets for all games can be bought online from Ticnet. Casino - Minimum 20 years of age, photo ID required. If you find yourself longing for an international casino, the Swedish state has heard your needs. In 2003 Stockholm’s first and only casino was opened, drawing a rather diverse crowd. There is a restaurant in the casino as well. Entrance 30 SEK. Dress code recommended. Amusement park Gröna Lund - Stockholm's only amusement park, with more or less standard attractions and games. The restaurants in the park are expensive and generally far from a culinary experience. Note that no rides are included in the entrance fee. Adults 60 SEK (120 SEK from 6 PM concert nights, usually Fridays). Rides 20-60 SEK with single tickets, day pass 260 SEK. HOW TO REACH By plane - Arlanda Airport The main international airport (served by SAS, Sterling, BA and many others) is situated 40 km north of the city. There are several methods for travelling between Stockholm and Arlanda. Taxis from major taxi companies operate on a fixed price basis between Arlanda and central Stockholm. Prices at the taxi stands currently range from SEK 395 (Transfer Taxi) to SEK 445. Generally, you can freely choose among the waiting taxis or ask the operator for a specific company. A taxi ride to central Stockholm takes approximately 40 minutes. With some companies, you can get a lower price if you pre-book your ride. With Airport Cab (phone: +46 8 25 25 23 the cost is 390 SEK from Arlanda to Stockholm, 350 SEK from Stockholm to Arlanda. The company airportshuttle.se runs a minibus shuttle service to selected hotels in central Stockholm. The price is SEK 150 when pre-booking at least 12 hours before departure. Ticket can also be bought for 180 SEK at the Arlanda information desks. Arlanda Express train which leaves from the lower level of each terminal, costs SEK 220 (SEK 110 for people under 25 years of age (tickets can be purchased from Kiosks at the platform, the train attendant may ask for ID for proof of age), two adults for 240 SEK during weekends and holidays) one-way, but gets you to the Central Station in 20 minutes and departs every 15 minutes during the day. The cheapest option is to use local transport. Bus 583 connects Arlanda with the northern suburb of Märsta, from where commuter trains take you to Stockholm Central. This takes about an hour and costs 80 SEK (52 SEK with pre-bought ticket coupons - or you can buy a SL travel card). Bromma Airport: A smaller airport 10km west of central Stockholm, mainly used for domestic flights and inter-European hops to cities like Brussels and Paris. Airport coaches go to the City Terminal, price SEK 69. A cheaper option (SEK 40, SEK 26 with pre-bought ticket coupons) is to take local bus 112 to Spånga station, and from there take a commuter train to Stockholm Central. Skavsta Airport: Used by Ryanair and Wizzair. 100 km southwest of Stockholm, near the town Nyköping. Airport coaches go to/from the City Terminal in Stockholm every 20 minutes. SEK 150 one way, SEK 249 round trip, takes about 80 minutes. Tickets can be bought on-line or from the cashier at the bus terminal. By train - The main station, Stockholms Central, serves both commuter and long- distance routes. It is located in the city centre, with an underground connection to T- Centralen, the central hub for the subway system. The major national rail company, SJ, has a travel planner and ticket booking service on its web page By bus - The City Terminal - Cityterminalen - is the main bus terminal, centrally located and directly connected to the main train station, Stockholms Central and the T Centralen metro station. There are multiple daily departures to most other cities in Sweden, as well as a few international routes: Swebus Express operates routes to Copenhagen and Oslo with several daily daily departures, and a twice-weekly service to Berlin. Eurolines has some departures to Copenhagen. Smaller operators offer connections with Prague, Budapest and Zagreb, among other cities. |