Stortorget Square – The Historic Core of Gamla Stan

💡Summary
Wander Stortorget, Stockholm’s oldest square in the heart of Gamla Stan. From medieval trade to the infamous Stockholm Bloodbath, its past is rich with drama.

Stortorget: The heart of Gamla Stan, Stockholm

Stortorget—meaning “The Great Square”—is the oldest public square in Stockholm and arguably its most beautiful. Situated in the very heart of Gamla Stan, the city’s historic old town, this storied square dates back to the 13th century. With its cobbled streets and colorful facades, it remains one of the most iconic and photographed destinations in Sweden’s capital.

Stortorget: A rich historical tapestry

Originally developed as a central marketplace, Stortorget quickly became the epicenter of social and commercial life in medieval Stockholm. Over the centuries, it hosted everything from royal proclamations and public celebrations to somber political reckonings. Notably, it was home to Sweden’s first pharmacy, which opened in 1575.

The Stockholm Bloodbath

One of the most dramatic chapters in Stortorget’s history was the Stockholm Bloodbath of 1520. Between November 7 and 9, shortly after Danish King Christian II was crowned King of Sweden, the square became the site of mass executions. Up to 100 Swedish nobles and clergymen were put to death, accused of treason and heresy.

The massacre, orchestrated by Christian II and heavily influenced by Archbishop Gustav Trolle, marked a turning point in Scandinavian history. It triggered the fall of the Kalmar Union and paved the way for the rise of the Vasa dynasty—shaping Sweden’s future as an independent nation.

Architectural highlights

Stortorget is surrounded by striking architecture that reflects its centuries-old significance. Notable buildings include:

Börshuset: Once home to the Stockholm Stock Exchange, this neoclassical structure now houses the Nobel Museum, honoring the world’s most prestigious award. Commissioned by King Gustav III, it was completed in 1788.
Stortorgsbrunnen: The central well, designed by architect Erik Palmstedt in 1778, served as Stockholm’s distance marker. It remains a visual centerpiece of the square.
Colorful Facades: The west side of the square is especially photogenic, with narrow, gabled buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries in vivid hues of red, yellow, and green.

Modern-day Stortorget

Today, Stortorget is a lively hub of culture and tourism. Charming cafés like Chokladkoppen serve Swedish pastries and coffee in cozy settings, while Pharmarium offers a creative cocktail experience inspired by the square’s apothecary past.

Each winter, Stortorget transforms into a festive destination with its traditional Christmas market, featuring handcrafted goods, glögg (mulled wine), and seasonal treats. Whether on a guided tour or a solo stroll, exploring Gamla Stan’s winding alleys and historic buildings is a sensory journey into Stockholm’s layered past.

Conclusion

Stortorget is more than a picturesque square—it’s a timeless stage where the drama, innovation, and traditions of Sweden have unfolded for centuries. From political upheaval to peaceful people-watching, it continues to captivate visitors with its blend of history, architecture, and local charm.

Whether you’re sipping hot chocolate on a crisp winter day or capturing the vibrant facades on a summer afternoon, Stortorget offers a truly unforgettable Stockholm experience.

🏘️ Stortorget—The Heartbeat of Old Stockholm
Nestled in the center of Gamla Stan, Stortorget is Stockholm’s oldest public square and a living snapshot of the city’s medieval soul. Framed by colorful gabled buildings and cobbled streets, it has witnessed centuries of trade, triumph, and tragedy—including the infamous Stockholm Bloodbath of 1520. Today, it’s a postcard-perfect gathering place, home to cozy cafés, the Nobel Prize Museum, and a beloved Christmas market. Every stone whispers stories of Stockholm’s past.