Travel through time at the Swedish History Museum, which brings together more than 10 million artifacts representing almost 1,000 years of the country’s history. Founded in 1866, the museum exhibits a collection that has been amassed by the Swedish monarchy since the 16th century, from the Vikings to the modern period. A cold winter day is the perfect time to wander through the exhibits, which celebrate Sweden’s unique heritage and its deep connections to the rest Europe.
Before walking into the museum, study the monumental bronze doors, called The Gates of History (Historiens Portar), which celebrate Sweden’s dual pagan and Christian heritage. Amid all the grandiosity, spot a beer bottle carved into the right side, a wink to the cultural touchstones of modern-day Sweden.
Start your visit in the famed Gold Room, which was blasted into bedrock in order to protect the 115 pounds (52 kilograms) of gold and 440 pounds (200 kilograms) of silver that is presented here. Wander between late antique golden collars made of Roman coins and Viking silver jewelry. Lean in for a good look at the glittering gems of the medieval reliquaries.
Though Sweden is associated in popular culture more with Odin than Christianity, understand the diversity of ideas in the museum’s extensive collection of religious objects. Imagine the hours of painstaking work that went into the decorations of the Skog tapestry, found in the Textile Room. In summer, head outside to the lawns, where kids and adults can try playing Viking games.
Find the Swedish History Museum in the heart of the Östermalm district in central Stockholm. Get here in about 15 minutes by public transportation from the Central Station or in 10 minutes by car. Gamla Stan is a 10-minute drive, 15-minute bus ride or 25-minute walk away. There are several public transportation stops in the immediate vicinity. Parking is very limited in the area. In the summer, visit the museum daily during regular business hours. In winter, the museum closes on Mondays but stays open well into the evening on Wednesdays. There is no admission fee.
