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Stockholm

Stockholms Stadion
– Olympic Spirit and 1912 Heritage

HomeStockholm UnveiledArchitectural LandmarksStadion: Stockholm’s 1912 Olympic Legacy and Landmark
💡 Summary
Visit Stockholms Stadion, the iconic arena of the 1912 Olympics. Designed by Torben Grut, this Östermalm landmark continues to host athletics, concerts, and cultural events in a setting rich with legacy.
🏅 World Record Alert – June 15, 2025:

During a Diamond League event at Stockholm Stadion, Armand “Mondo” Duplantis soared to a new world record of 6.28 m in the pole vault—his 12th global mark—electrifying local fans and making history on home soil.

Stadion: Stockholm’s historic 1912 Olympic Arena

Stockholm Olympic Stadium—known locally as Stockholms Stadion—stands as one of the world’s more iconic sports venues. Nestled in the Östermalm district, this architectural gem was completed between 1910 and 1912 to host the 1912 Summer Olympics. Today, it holds the distinction of being the oldest Olympic stadium still in active use.

Originally planned as a temporary wooden arena, the project took a visionary turn under architect Torben Grut. Embracing Sweden’s national romantic style and classical influences, Grut designed a permanent structure built from brick, cement, and stone. The stadium’s dark façade and sculptural details reflect both cultural pride and timeless elegance.

Stockholms Stadion officially opened on June 1, 1912. It served as the centerpiece for Olympic events such as athletics and multiple sports competitions—cementing its status as a pioneer of modern stadium design and a landmark of global sporting history.

Architectural significance

Stockholm’s Olympic Stadium is celebrated for its architectural nods to antiquity. Designed to evoke the grandeur of ancient arenas, the structure also mirrors the fortified charm of medieval city walls. Its striking red brick façade is adorned with sculptural reliefs and decorative elements crafted by prominent Swedish artists, including Carl Eldh.
This fusion of national romanticism and classical form results in a stadium that is both historically resonant and visually compelling. Seating capacity varies by event: approximately 13,145 to 14,500 for sports, with the ability to expand to nearly 33,000 for concerts—making it a versatile venue with enduring appeal.

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The 1912 Olympic Games

Held from May 5 to July 27, the 1912 Summer Olympics in Stockholm marked the fifth edition of the modern Games. Dubbed the “Swedish Masterpiece,” this Olympiad earned acclaim for its exemplary organization and logistical precision.

A total of 2,409 athletes from 29 nations competed in 107 events across 14 sports. This edition was especially groundbreaking—it introduced the modern pentathlon, as well as women’s swimming and diving events, expanding the scope and inclusivity of the Games.

Among the standout athletes was American Jim Thorpe, who stunned audiences by claiming gold in both the pentathlon and decathlon. Finnish long-distance runner Hannes Kolehmainen also rose to fame, capturing multiple gold medals and setting new benchmarks in endurance racing.

Stockholm 1912 was a turning point in Olympic history. It marked the first use of electronic timing and public address systems, paving the way for technological innovation in sports. The Games also achieved global representation for the first time, with competitors from all five inhabited continents—notably including Japan’s Olympic debut.

Despite a few controversies—such as the cancellation of boxing due to Swedish opposition—the Stockholm Olympics set enduring standards in sportsmanship, inclusivity, and event management.

🏟️ Stockholms Stadion – Legacy of the 1912 Olympics
Built for the 1912 Summer Olympics, Stockholm’s Stadion is a striking blend of brick architecture and athletic history. Known as the “Sunshine Olympics,” the 1912 Games were praised for their organization and innovation—including the first use of electronic timing and the debut of Japan in Olympic competition. Today, the stadium still hosts sports and concerts, standing as the world’s oldest Olympic arena still in use. It’s more than a venue—it’s a monument to Sweden’s place in modern Olympic history.

Modern-day use

Over a century after its Olympic debut, Stockholm’s Olympic Stadium remains a vibrant hub of sports and culture. It continues to host the annual DN Galan—now known as Bauhaus Galan—a prestigious Diamond League athletics meet that attracts world-class competitors. The stadium also plays a key role in the Stockholm Marathon, where runners finish their race with a final lap on its historic track.

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Beyond athletics, the venue serves as a celebrated stage for concerts, welcoming renowned Swedish and international artists alike. Its adaptable design and iconic setting make it a sought-after destination for live events year-round.

To preserve its legacy while meeting modern standards, the stadium has undergone careful renovations. Notably, the North Stand was rebuilt in the late 1990s to integrate updated facilities without compromising the architectural vision of Torben Grut. These updates ensure that the Stadion remains both functional and historically faithful—a living landmark at the heart of Stockholm.

Visiting the Stadion

For visitors to Stockholm, the Olympic Stadium is more than a historic site—it’s a living piece of Sweden’s cultural and athletic identity. Whether attending an event or simply exploring its storied grounds, tourists can step into the legacy of the 1912 Games and witness a venue that continues to host world-class performances.

Set within the lush expanse of Kungliga Nationalstadsparken (The Royal National City Park), the stadium is both centrally located and scenically surrounded. Its accessibility and setting make it an ideal stop on any Stockholm itinerary—whether you’re a sports enthusiast, history buff, or simply enjoying a walk through one of Europe’s most charming capitals.

Attraction Info

English Stockholm Olympic Stadium

Swedish Stockholms Stadion

Address
📍Lidingövägen 1
🗺️Östermalm
Contact
📞+46 (0)8-508 27 700
🌐https://foreningsservice.stockholm/hitta-idrottsanlaggningar-som-bokas/idrottsanlaggning/stockholms-stadion/
Getting there
🚇Stadion (Red Line).
🚌Bus 1, 4 – stop at “Stadion” or “Valhallavägen”.
🚶‍♂️10 minutes from Karlaplan or Tekniska högskolan.
🚗City bike stations nearby.
🅿️Limited public parking along Valhallavägen and in nearby garages.
Other Info
ℹ️Built for the 1912 Olympics, the stadium still hosts concerts, sports events, and ceremonies year-round.

Attractions nearby

Places to stay in the area

Scandic Park
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Scandic Park

⭐ 4.0 | 📈 8.4 | 🏨 Hotel | 📍 Karlavägen 43, Östermalm

Scandic Park promises comfort with free Wi-Fi, accessible parking, and express check-in. Enjoy room service, dry cleaning, and a home-like atmosphere. Start your day with breakfast and savor meals at the on-site restaurant and bar. Relax in the sauna or steam room, and stay fit at the gym.

Ett Hem
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Ett Hem

⭐ 5.0 | 📈 9.1 | 🏨 Hotel | 📍 Sköldungagatan 2, Östermalm

Experience the charm of Ett Hem, a luxurious boutique hotel offering a home-like atmosphere. Nestled in a peaceful neighborhood, this elegant retreat boasts beautifully designed rooms and exquisite dining options. Enjoy personalized service and a serene garden, creating a perfect escape from the bustling city life.

Home Hotel Tapto
8.4

Home Hotel Tapto

⭐ 3.0 | 📈 8.4 | 🏨 Hotel | 📍 Jungfrugatan 57, Östermalm

Home Hotel Tapto offers top-notch services and amenities, ensuring guests experience utmost comfort. Share your photos and respond to emails at your convenience, thanks to the free Wi-Fi internet access offered by the hotel. Visitors can take advantage of the accessible parking options directly at the hotel.

Elite Eden Park Hotel
8.3

Elite Eden Park Hotel

⭐ 4.0 | 📈 8.3 | 🏨 Hotel | 📍 Sturegatan 22, Östermalm

The Elite Eden Park Hotel features excellent service with Wi-Fi, parking, and concierge services. Rooms include balconies, TVs, and minibars. Enjoy breakfast, dining, and vibrant bar evenings. Relax in the steam room, sauna, or pool. Stay fit with the fitness center's amenities, ensuring a delightful stay.

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