23 May , 2025
7.4 C
Stockholm

Långholmens Prison Museum
– A Historic Island Escape in Stockholm

💡 Summary
Escape to Långholmen, a Stockholm island rich in history and natural charm. Once a prison, it now offers green parks, waterfront strolls, and historic sites. For a unique stay, book a night at the former jail-turned-hotel and immerse yourself in this cultural retreat.

Exploring Långholmen: A journey through history and nature

Discover the captivating history of Långholmen prison on the serene Långholmen Island in Stockholm, Sweden. This former prison, operational from 1724 until 1975, housed a diverse range of inmates, from political detainees to common criminals.

Långholmen Hotel: A unique transformation

Today, Långholmen prison has undergone a remarkable transformation. It has been reborn as the Långholmen Hotel, offering guests a unique opportunity to experience its storied past. Former prison cells have been artfully converted into modern, comfortable hotel rooms with contemporary amenities.

Within the hotel, you’ll find a compelling museum. It showcases the evolution of the prison into a hotel. Furthermore, guided tours offer insights into the prison’s history, guiding guests through former punishment cells and even the chilling execution chamber.

🔒 From Prison Island to Green Oasis
Långholmen, once a barren island in central Stockholm, was transformed into a lush haven by the very prisoners it confined. In the 19th century, inmates dredged mud from surrounding waterways to cover the rocky terrain, inadvertently introducing foreign seeds from passing ships. This labor turned the island into a verdant landscape with an exotic flora. Today, the island stands as a testament to this transformation, offering visitors serene parks, beaches, and a unique stay in the former prison-turned-hotel.

Exploring Långholmen prison’s varied past

Uncover the story of Långholmen Prison, a complex tapestry spanning centuries. Established in 1724 on the island, it initially served as a workhouse for the impoverished and unemployed. Later, it evolved into a prison housing both male and female inmates.

Throughout its existence, the prison hosted a diverse inmate population. The conditions were challenging, including hard labor, solitary confinement, and corporal punishment.

In the mid-1800s, the prison underwent significant renovations and expansion, introducing modern facilities. Despite improvements, overcrowding and staff shortages led to inmate protests and riots.

In the early 20th century, Långholmen prison adopted a progressive approach. It offered education and vocational training to inmates, aiming to equip them with skills for a better life beyond incarceration.

In 1975, the prison closed its doors, writing its final chapter. This was driven by changes in Sweden’s penal system and the deteriorating state of the facility.

Exploring Långholmen’s tranquil green spaces

Långholmen Island, home to the historic Långholmen prison, offers a serene contrast to the bustling city of Stockholm. Renowned for its lush green areas and parkland, the island is nestled amid the heart of Stockholm and surrounded by tranquil waters.

These picturesque spots offer panoramic views of the water and the city skyline. They provide an ideal backdrop for jogging, cycling, and various outdoor activities.

Attraction Info

Långholmens Prison Museum
Långholmens museum

Address

Långholmsmuren 20
117 33 Stockholm

Contact

+46 8-720 85 81
museum@langholmen.com

Getting there

Hornstull
4, 40, 54

Attractions nearby

Places to stay in the area

STF Långholmen Hostel
8.7

STF Långholmen Hostel

⭐ 2.0 | 📈 8.7 | 🏨 Hotel | 📍 Långholmsmuren 20, Långholmen

STF Langholmen Hostel ensures comfort with free internet and parking. Enjoy express check-in, concierge services, and in-room dining. Start your day with a homemade breakfast and explore the beach, BBQ facilities, and shared kitchen.

Langholmen Hotell
8.6

Langholmen Hotell

⭐ 3.0 | 📈 8.6 | 🏨 Hotel | 📍 Långholmsmuren, 20, Långholmen

Discover a rare blend of heritage and hospitality at Langholmen Hotell, situated on Stockholm's picturesque Langholmen Island. This former prison offers cozy, well-appointed rooms and a fascinating glimpse into its storied past. Wander through scenic landscapes, relax by the water, and savor delicious local dishes.

Reimersholme Hotel
8.5

Reimersholme Hotel

⭐ 2.0 | 📈 8.5 | 🏨 Hotel | 📍 Reimersholmsgatan 5, Reimersholme

Reimersholme Hotel provides cozy ambiance with a fireplace and free Wi-Fi. Enjoy breakfast, on-site dining, and evening entertainment at the bar. Laundry service and BBQ facilities add to the convenience.

Courtyard Stockholm Kungsholmen
8.6

Courtyard Stockholm Kungsholmen

⭐ 4.0 | 📈 8.6 | 🏨 Hotel | 📍 Rålambshovsleden 50, Marieberg

Courtyard Stockholm Kungsholmen ensures a seamless stay with free Wi-Fi, parking, and car hire services. Amenities include a fireplace, convenience store, and smoke-free rooms with air conditioning and balconies. Enjoy a homemade breakfast, on-site bar, steam room, sauna, and fitness center. Culinary enthusiasts can use the shared kitchen for meal prep.

StockholmMuseum Map

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