Country | Sweden |
Population | 984748 |
Area | 188 km2 (73 sq mi) |
Time Zone | UTC+1 (CET) |
Coordinates | 59.32938, 18.06871 |
Highest elevation | 28 m (92 ft) |
City Gallery
City Description
Stockholm, the capital and most populous city of Sweden, is a vibrant and dynamic urban center with a population of approximately 1 million within the municipality, 1.6 million in the urban area, and 2.4 million in the metropolitan area. Situated across fourteen islands where Lake Mälaren flows into the Baltic Sea, Stockholm boasts a unique geographical landscape, enhanced by the scenic Stockholm archipelago to the east.
The city’s history dates back to the Stone Age, with continuous settlement since the 6th millennium BC. Officially founded as a city in 1252 by the Swedish statesman Birger Jarl, Stockholm has since evolved into the cultural, media, political, and economic heart of Sweden. As the county seat of Stockholm County, it plays a pivotal role in the nation’s administration.
Stockholm’s economy is robust, with the region contributing over a third of Sweden’s GDP, making it one of the top 10 regions in Europe by GDP per capita. Recognized as a global city, Stockholm is the largest in Scandinavia and a central hub for corporate headquarters in the Nordic region. Major Swedish companies, including banks and tech giants, have their headquarters in Stockholm, solidifying its status as a leading financial and innovation center.
The city is home to prestigious universities such as the Karolinska Institute, Stockholm School of Economics, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, and Stockholm University, fostering a vibrant academic and research environment. Stockholm’s cultural significance is highlighted by hosting the annual Nobel Prize ceremonies and banquet at the Stockholm Concert Hall and Stockholm City Hall.
Tourism flourishes in Stockholm, with the Vasa Museum being the most visited museum in Scandinavia. The Stockholm metro, renowned for its artistic station decor, is often referred to as the longest art gallery in the world. The city has a rich sporting history, having hosted the 1912 Summer Olympics and numerous other international sports events.
Stockholm’s urban landscape is characterized by a blend of historical architecture and modern infrastructure. The city center features significant buildings such as the Stockholm Palace, the official residence and workplace of the Swedish monarch, and the Drottningholm Palace in Ekerö, the private residence of the Royal Family. The government operates from the Rosenbad building, while the Riksdag, Sweden’s parliament, is housed in the Parliament House, with the Prime Minister’s residence located at the adjacent Sager House.
Overall, Stockholm is a city that seamlessly integrates its rich history with modern development, making it a major center for culture, innovation, and governance in Scandinavia and beyond.
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