Gamla Stan is a fairytale place, and this is a list of what to see in the old town of Stockholm.
On the island of Stadsholmen is Stockholm’s old town, Gamla Stan, sometimes called “Τhe town between the bridges” (Staden mellan broarna). Old, well-preserved buildings, cobbled streets, and mediaeval passageways characterise this 13th-century town. The old town’s architecture was heavily influenced by North German design. It is also the location of the city’s cathedral, the Royal Palace, the renowned Nobel Museum, and a number of other noteworthy public structures.
With a large number of eateries, cafes, pubs, and stores that mostly sell tourist souvenirs and regional goods, it is also the most touristed sector of the city. It does, however, also have over 3,000 permanent inhabitants who contribute to the neighbourhood’s friendlier and cosier atmosphere and help to maintain its residential and local identity.
Let’s examine the most significant places that everybody should see in order to fully understand this stunning neighbourhood and obtain a comprehensive view of it without being weary.
The Royal Palace
The Royal Palace (Kungliga slottet) is a very spectacular structure that takes up a significant portion of the island where the old town is situated. With almost 600 rooms, it is one of the biggest royal complexes in Europe. Despite being the royal family’s official residence, it is accessible to the general public and has five museums. On the site where the “Tre Kronor” fortress burnt down in 1695, the Palace was primarily constructed in the eighteenth century in the Italian Baroque style.
The Hall of State with Queen Kristina’s silver throne, the Halls of the Orders of Chivalry, and the reception rooms with their magnificent 18th- and 19th-century decor are accessible to visitors. With its royal armour and costumes, coronation carriages, and splendid coaches from the Royal Stable, the Armoury is the most prominent of the five museums. The Parade Square (Yttre borggården) in front of the palace’s main entrance, with its magnificent colonnades and the royal guards with their striking uniforms, is well worth seeing if you don’t have time to visit the interior of this enormous structure.
Stortorget
Stortorget is the main square of the old town. Since the Middle Ages, it has been the most popular meeting point. It was also the city central market with commercial stalls on its sides. The construction of the stock exchange building on the north side in the 18th century gave it its current form. This building changed its function in 2001. Since then it houses the Nobel Prize Museum and the headquarters of the Nobel Organisation.
The western side of the square features a row of colourful mediaeval houses. It is unquestionably the most picturesque and photographed side of the square. Both locals and tourists frequent the popular cafes Kaffekoppen and Chokladkoppen, which are located on the ground level. With a classic Swedish cinnamon bun (kanelbullar) and a cup of coffee at one of their tables, Gamla Stan’s images that surround you will transport you to mediaeval Stockholm.
Gåstorget
People walking along the busy Västerlånggatan often overlook Gåstorget, a charming little square in Gamla Stan. The colourful homes and lush surrounds enhance the square’s lovely ambiance. It’s a fantastic spot to sit on the benches or grab coffee at one of the cafes and bars that line either side. The focal point of the area is the bronze sculpture “Heavyweights“, created by sculptor Sven Lundqvist, which depicts two boxers fighting surrounded by onlookers. This one-meter-tall piece of art, which is set on a granite base, adds a special ambience to the place.
Storkyrkan
One of Sweden’s most important religious and national landmarks is the 700-year-old Stockholm Cathedral, Storkyrkan. Over the ages, what started out as a 13th-century hamlet church has transformed into the magnificent structure it is today. This church served as the primary location for royal rituals, weddings, and burials. It was also the starting point of Lutheran teaching among the Swedes. With the wooden statue of St. George and the Dragon at its highest point, the cathedral conceals significant paintings, statues, and other artwork. It is no wonder that it is one of the best examples of late Gothic sculpture in Northern Europe. In general, a visit to the temple is essential for familiarising oneself with a significant aspect of Swedish history.
Saint George and the Dragon
Köpmantorget is home to the sculpture of Saint George and the Dragon. It is a bronze reproduction of the wooden Saint George and the Dragon at Storkyrkan that was unveiled on October 10, 1912, the anniversary of the Battle of Brunkeberg. The sculpture shows the knight with his sword lifted, ready to strike the dragon, which is lying prone on its back. In contrast to the surrounding red and yellow buildings and the city skyline, the statue’s black figure stands on an elevated point with two roads circling on either side, producing a striking scene that you won’t soon forget.
Mårten Trotzigs gränd
At just 90 cm wide, this street in Gamla Stan is the narrowest in Stockholm. The street ends in 36 steps at one end, providing a clear understanding of the elevation differences across the area. Also, as you walk along it, you can understand the proximity of the houses in the old centre of the city. The street owes its name to a German merchant who owned two of the houses on the street. This narrow passage was closed for about 100 years before it became accessible again in 1945.
The Iron Boy
The Finnish Church’s backyard, close to Stortorget, is home to Stockholm’s smallest statue. Swedish artist Liss Eriksson created the artwork, which stands only 15 cm tall. In fact, its name is “Little boy looking at the moon.” It is commonly referred to as the “Iron Boy“, or “Järnpojke“. The sculpture is said to bring good fortune to anyone who gives the boy a tiny gift or strokes his head. Therefore, the boy receives ingenious presents every day. Typical gifts include cheese, cash, fruit, and candy. There is always something new, and as a result, the sculpture is slightly different every day.
Evert Taubes Terrace
One of the most striking landmarks in the city is this shoreline at the west end of Gamla Stan. The statue of the well-known troubadour and musician Evert Taubes is the reason it got its name. The statue is located in the middle of the terrace in front of the magnificent Wrangel Palace. This building was the biggest private palace in Stockholm and also, for over 50 years, was the residence of the royal family before the construction of Kungliga slottet.
From this waterfront, you can see on one side the northern coastline of the island of Södermalm with some of the city’s most striking coastal structures and Stockholm City Hall on the other. The vast horizon and the prominent presence of water on this shoreline allow you to appreciate the beauty of the entire area without having to be at any high point.
Sundberg’s Confectionery
The most historic and oldest surviving cafe in Gamla Stan is Sundberg’s Confectionery (Sundbergs Konditori). In 1785 the confectioner and sugar baker Gustaf Adolf Sundberg founded the cafe that became a local landmark. The confectionery became a gathering place for those active in the banking sector. This was the reason it acquired the nickname “Small stock market.” Here you will taste sweets, savoury dishes, and tea served in porcelain cups and plates. You will enjoy here a “royal” fika in its impressive period rooms and old-fashioned atmosphere.
Restaurant Tradition
Very close to the main square, Restaurant Tradition (Restaurang Tradition) has a beautifully Scandinavian design and offers a light, airy ambiance. This is the best place in Stockholm to try Swedish meatballs. Their meatballs smell amazing, have a smooth texture, and have a well-balanced flavour. The creamy sauce is excellent and subtly highlights the aftertaste of the meatballs. The accompanying mashed potato with the delicious jam is the perfect side dish. At Tradition you can also try many Swedish dishes, impeccably executed and with a pleasant modern feel.
A fairytale place
Gamla Stan is one of the best-preserved mediaeval cities in Europe. It is a place that seems to have emerged from a fairy tale. Its real charm lies in the unknown corners and hidden gems. Get lost in the narrow streets, rest in a cafe, enjoy the local cuisine, and let yourself indulge in Gamla Stan’s magic. Our article is only a basic guide in the exploration of a really magnificent part of Stockholm.
