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Stockholm, the largest city and the capital of Sweden, is built on many islands that are connected by bridges, giving it the name, "City of Bridges." It is not know when Stockholm was founded but the city is mentioned in a letter as early as 1252. Founded by Birger Jarl, Stockholm is built on about 20 islands along the coast of Sweden. Ferryboats navigate her waterways.
The Riksdag, or lawmakers of Sweden, use one of the bridges to get to Riksdagshuset, their meeting place. The Riksbank, the oldest government-owned bank in the world, stands nearby. There are 289 municipalities with Stockholm being the largest. If you move to Stockholm and you live there 3 years, you have the right to vote and run for local elections.
The oldest part of the city is Gamla Staden (Old Town) and is the site of Sweden's Royal Palace. Here you will find narrow winding streets with many homes built in the 16th and 17th century.
The Royal Palace, official residence of the king of Sweden and his family is freely accessible to tourists. Inside the palace is a famous collection of Gobelin tapestries decorating the splendid royal residence.
Historians believe Stockholm to have been originally established as a defense outpost on one of the channel islands that make up Old Town. Sweden gained importance during the late Middle Ages by exporting metals, timber and furs. In 1523 the successful overthrow of Danish rule made possible a new Swedish Kingdom.
Gustav Vasa seized power and by the 18th century authors, scientist and merchants began to have authority in the city and women started to appear in the arts. By the time Gustav III came to rule his whimsical lifestyle provided much gossip for the city. He promoted the Swedish arts and most of the general public gave him their support.
Today, Stockholm is a dazzling city with broad streets and green trees and parks. Politician Albert Lindhagen was responsible for the town planning that gives the city the superb scenery it has today.
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