Stockholm
Nordiska Kompaniet department store. Founded in 1902.
Since 1954 the neon sign sits on a custom-designed tower on the NK building’s roof, 87 meters above street level.
Gamla Stan
Gamla Stan has played a prominent role in the history of Swedish architecture, with many of Sweden’s most renowned architects shaping the area.
Stortorget is the name of the scenic large square in the centre of Gamla Stan, which is surrounded by old merchants’ houses including the Stockholm Stock Exchange Building. The square was the site of the Stockholm Bloodbath, where Swedish noblemen were massacred by the Danish in November, 1520. The following revolt and civil war led to the dissolution of the Kalmar Union and the subsequent election of King Gustav I.
As well as being home to the Stockholm Cathedral, the Nobel Museum, and the Riddarholmen Church, Gamla stan also boasts Kungliga slottet, Sweden’s baroque Royal Palace, built in the 18th century after the previous palace The Kronor burned down.
The Stockholm Opera House began as a tennis court! Opened in 1782 by Gustavus III, it was the scene of his assassination by the nobleman Ankarstrom, who disagreed with his reforms because they favoured the poorer classes.The King?s son threatened to tear down the building, but relented, putting it to use as a hospital during the war against Finland. Opera in Stockholm saw a revival in the nineteenth century with the debut of Jenny Lind, the Swedish Nightingale in 1835.
The Swedish Royal Family’s summer residence is Solliden Palace, also known as Solliden, on the island of Öland in southern Sweden. The palace is privately owned by King Carl XVI Gustaf and is often the site of summer events, such as Victoria Day, which celebrates the Crown Princess’ birthday on July 14. The surrounding park is open to the public.
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