Stockholm's Royal Palace
The Swedish Royal family has nine palaces in southern Sweden. Start exploring them with a visit to the Royal Palace in Stockholm’s Gamla Stan.
The Royal Palace is one of the main attractions in Stockholm’s Old Town (Gamla Stan). It is the official residence of the Swedish Royal family, but today they actually live in Drottningholm Palace, just outside of Stockholm. The royal family holds official receptions at the Royal Palace and it serves as the work place of Royal Court, the King and the Queen.
The Royal Palace, ornately decorated in the new Rococco style, dates from 1754. The site has been occupied by a fortress since the 10th century and a castle since the 1300s. The Swedes rebuilt the existing structure after it was ravaged by fire in the late 1600s. Palace tour guides explain the history of the Swedish monarchy, including the introduction of new blood from Jean-Baptiste Bernadotte, one of Napleon’s generals, in the early 19th century. Visitors can see the Hall of State, the King’s and Queen’s staircase, banquet rooms, the bedrooms of former kings, a silver throne, and rooms used for medal ceremonies and the presentation of credentials by diplomats when they arrive in Stockholm.
Treasury
The Royal Palace holds Sweden’s stash of royal crowns, jewels, scepters, and swords. The crowns on display, varying in size and bejeweled with diamonds, rubies, and other precious stones, belong to some of Sweden’s past and present royals. The oldest crown dates from 1561 and belonged to Erik XIV. Visitors can view the state sword of Gustav Vasa, a silver baptismal font dating from 1696, and photos of the royal family.
Changing of the Royal Guards
The changing of the guards is a pomp and circumstance-filled affair, reenacted daily at 12:15. The event starts with a drum corps marching through the main courtyard, while guards carrying flags present the colors of Sweden and the royal family.
Practical Information
The palace is open Tuesday-Sunday from 12-3 pm. Entrance is 130 Swedish kroner (18 USD) for adults, 65 SEK (9USD) for children and students. The entrance fee includes guided tours in English. Tours start at 2pm and they do not require advance booking, unless you are with a large group. The gift shop, in the main courtyard, is a treasure trove of information about the rather attractive looking royal family. You can buy books, postcards, royal china patterns, towels engraved with the royal seal, along with many other types of royalty inspired memorabilia.
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