Other than palaces of a fine heritage, Stockholm’s architecture is unique in its own right and deserves a proper perusal. Here are some of the main sights and buildings which will be a treat for your eyes.
Stockholm Public Library
If finding yourself while traveling is one of your main goals, consider spending some time in quiet reflection and reading at the Stockholm Public Library. As a wise man once said, “books have the power to transform lives”.
Designed by renowned architect Gunnar Asplund, the rotunda library is a fine example of Swedish Grace in the Nordic Classicism style with over 2 million books to get lost in.
Skogskyrkogården
To further contemplate about life, head to this UNESCO World Heritage site, The Woodland Cemetery. With strong principles of blending life and nature with the burials, tombstones and graves can be found amongst solemn pine trees.
There is a large granite cross near the entrance, open to interpretation to all who visit. Indeed, this peaceful walk will make you think about life and death.
Riddarholmen Church
n the spirit of making sense of the self, head on to explore religious landmarks. The final resting place of many monarchs, the Riddarholmen Church operates as a museum open to visitors from May to September. It is one of the longest-preserved, medieval churches from the 13th century in Stockholm.
Buying tickets for public transportation in Stockholm can be confusing so purchase the Hop-On and Hop-Off Bus which will drop you off here and many other stops!
Storkyrkan
Another church that will make you pause in wonder is the Storkyrkan. A Lutheran Church (since 1527), built-in 1279, it has seen many weddings and even music concerts.
It famously features the wooden statue of St George and the Dragon, Vädersolstavlan painting, and many other artifacts.
Sergels Torg
Now, we head on to places that have provoked great thoughts in men. This square is one of the most significant public spaces in central Stockholm. From the time of its conception to completion, it has seen many gatherings of people for radical protests, legendary performances and rumor has it, scandalous love affairs.
It features a lovely fountain that has 64 round, glazed openings and a glass obelisk which is lighted up from the inside creating a stunning night scene. However, do be especially careful if you are heading there at night as this area is known for pickpockets and drug trafficking.
Stockholm City Hall
Inspired to achieve great things in life such as a Nobel Prize? Stockholm City Hall hosts the Nobel Prize banquet annually in December in its grand ceremonial halls, including that of the Golden Hall which features millions of gold mosaic tiles.
The facade is no less impressive with a spire of the Three Crowns and a structure designed in a true romanticism style.
Travelers must book a guided tour to explore City Hall and prices vary with the seasons. There are three tours a day in both English and Swedish and you can even climb the tower during the summer months.
Royal Swedish Opera
But, if you decided that science isn’t your field, and you would like to explore the arts instead, the Royal Swedish Opera can’t be missed.
With a long history of being left to ruins, burnt and revamped multiple times, the Royal Swedish Opera offers opera and ballet performances in an 1100 seater auditorium with a huge chandelier hanging above.
Book your tickets to watch heart-wrenching and beautiful performances here.
Katarina Kyrka
Last but not least, this landmark may not hold the keys to your inner peace but it is definitely a must-see. The church building is shaped in a cross and has been restored many times after fires to carefully preserve its 17th-century architecture authenticity.
While finding out about one’s true self is easier said than done, these architectural sites would definitely leave you with a new insight into Stockholm’s culture and way of life.
