Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The city is built on an archipelago of islands connected by bridges. Its loc-
ation midway along the Baltic Sea made it a natural port, vital to the eco-
nomy and security of the Swedish peninsula. In the 1500s, Stockholm became
a political center when Gustav Vasa established the monarchy (1523). A cen-
tury later, the expansionist King Gustavus Adolphus made it an influential
European capital. The Industrial Revolution brought factories and a flood of
farmers from the countryside. In the 20th century, the fuming smokestacks
were replaced with steel-and-glass Modernist buildings housing high-tech
workers and an expanding service sector.
Today, with more than two million people in the greater metropolitan area
(one in five Swedes), Stockholm is Sweden's largest city, as well as its cul-
tural, educational, and media center. It's also the country's most ethnically di-
verse city. Despite its size, Stockholm is committed to limiting its environ-
mental footprint. Development is strictly monitored, and pollution-belching
cars must pay a toll to enter the city.
Forthevisitor,Stockholmoffersbotholdandnew.CrawlthroughEurope's
best-preserved old warship and relax on a scenic harbor boat tour. Browse the
cobbles and antique shops of the lantern-lit Old Town. Take a trip back in time
at Skansen, Europe's first and best open-air folk museum. Marvel at Stock-
holm's glittering City Hall, slick shopping malls, and art museums.
While progressive and sleek, Stockholm respects its heritage. In summer,
military bands parade daily through the heart of town to the Royal Palace, an-
