10 July , 2025
14.9 C
Stockholm

City Museum Stockholm
– Discover the City’s Cultural and Historical Journey

HomeMuseums & Attractions in StockholmHistorical MuseumsStockholm City Museum: A Journey Through Urban History
💡 Summary
Located in historic Södra Stadshuset at Slussen, the City Museum of Stockholm takes you through the city’s transformation from medieval times to today. Explore exhibits on urban development, cultural identity, and artifacts like the famous Kopparmatte statue.

City Museum of Stockholm – Explore the capital’s history

City Museum of Stockholm (Stadsmuseet) is a rich repository of history housed in the 17th-century Södra Stadshuset. It documents Stockholm’s transformation from a medieval city to a modern capital through exhibits that highlight urban life, governance, and cultural development.

Note: Slussen is currently under reconstruction, which may impact access to certain areas around the museum.

🏛️ A journey through Stockholm’s past

Visitors can explore an extensive collection of artifacts, documents, and photographs. Interactive and multimedia displays offer insights into Stockholm’s diverse population, political milestones, and city planning over centuries.

🕰️ Featured exhibition: New Stockholm—Turn of the century 1900

This exhibition explores how the city evolved from Empire dreams to suburban punk culture. It includes pivotal eras like the rise of folkhemmet (the Swedish welfare state).

🏛️ The Museum That Was Once a Prison
The museum building—Södra Stadshuset—was completed in 1685 and has served as a court, tavern, school, and prison. It became a museum in 1942 and is itself a key exhibit in Stockholm’s story.

👤 Highlight: The Kopparmatte statue

The Kopparmatte (‘Copper Matthew’) statue once stood on the shame pole at Stortorget and symbolizes Stockholm’s harsh early legal system. Made in 1603, the bronze figure holds twigs used in public punishment. Today, he stands inside the City Museum as a stark historical reminder.

See also  Stockholm's narrowest street: Mårten Trotzigs Gränd

Kopparmatte with his whip stands today at the Stockholm City Museum. Photo: © StockholmMuseum.com

📍 Ryssgården: Historic Hub

Originally a Russian trading hub in the 1600s, Ryssgården later hosted military camps and customs buildings. Its evolution mirrors centuries of Sweden’s shifting political landscape. The museum’s setting near Slussen connects past to present amid today’s major urban redevelopment.

🏗️ About the building

Designed by Nicodemus Tessin the Elder, the building later featured work by his son Tessin the Younger. One hall, the Tessinsalen, once held anatomical dissections witnessed by Carl von Linné in 1729. Fires, renovations, and transformations have left their marks—making the building an architectural exhibit itself.

🧭 Nearby attractions

  • Gamla Stan (Old Town): Cobbled alleys and landmarks like the Royal Palace and Stockholm Cathedral.
  • The Royal Palace: Explore lavish rooms, state regalia, and the Royal Armory.
  • Nobel Prize Museum: Learn about Nobel laureates and innovation through interactive exhibits.
  • Fotografiska: Enjoy world-class photography and panoramic views.
  • Katarina Elevator (Katarinahissen): Take in sweeping city views from this historic lift near Slussen.
  • Stortorget: The main square of Old Town, famous for its history and architecture.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, the City Museum of Stockholm offers a rich and layered view of how the capital became what it is today.

Attraction Info

English Stockholm City Museum

Swedish Stadsmuseet

Address
📍 Ryssgården
🗺️116 46 Stockholm, Sweden
Contact
📞+46 8-508 31 620
🌐https://stadsmuseet.stockholm/en/
✉️stadsmuseet@stockholm.se
Getting there
🚇Slussen
🚌Various.
Other Info
ℹ️Slussen is currently under reconstruction, which may result in some limited accessibility.

Attractions nearby

Places to stay in the area

Hotel Frantz
9.2

Hotel Frantz

⭐ 4.0 | 📈 9.2 | 🏨 Hotel | 📍 Peter Myndes Backe 5, Södermalm

Hotel Frantz, part of WorldHotels Crafted, blends historic charm with contemporary elegance. Nestled in a vibrant neighborhood, this boutique hotel offers unique, stylish rooms and personalized service. Take pleasure in its rich history, modern comforts, and proximity to cultural landmarks, all of which contribute to a memorable stay in the heart of the city.

Hilton Stockholm Slussen Hotel
8.3

Hilton Stockholm Slussen Hotel

⭐ 4.0 | 📈 8.3 | 🏨 Hotel | 📍 Guldgränd 8, Old Town

Hilton Stockholm Slussen Hotel: Experience seamless service, free Wi-Fi, airport transfer, and parking. Enjoy 24-hour room service, smoke-free rooms, and entertainment options. Start your day with breakfast and unwind at our bar and nightclub. Stay active in the fitness center.

Guldgränd
9.2

Guldgränd

⭐ 3.0 | 📈 9.2 | 🏨 Serviced apartment | 📍 Guldgränd 5, Södermalm

Located in the heart of the city, Guldgränd seamlessly combines elegance with convenience. Its stylishly appointed apartments offer a perfect retreat for visitors seeking a homely atmosphere amidst urban vibrance. With excellent transport links and proximity to cultural landmarks, Guldgränd is your gateway to exploring the rich tapestry of city life.

Scandic Sjöfartshotellet
7.8

Scandic Sjöfartshotellet

⭐ 4.0 | 📈 7.8 | 🏨 Hotel | 📍 Katarinavägen 26, Södermalm

Enjoy free Wi-Fi, parking, and express check-in. Rooms offer entertainment features and designated smoking zones. Begin your day with breakfast and enjoy on-site dining. Relax at the bar, steam room, sauna, and fitness center. Engage in activities for a delightful experience.

StockholmMuseum Map

🖼 130+ Museums & Attractions  |  🧒 Family-Friendly  |  📍 Citywide Locations

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