Stockholm is the capital of Sweden. The city was founded by Birger Jarl as a precautionary measure to protect the country from the invasion of foreign navies from the sea and to put an end to the looting of the cities such as Sigtuna on Lake Malaren. The name of the city refers to the islet Stadsholmen in central Stockholm. As a capital city, it is the site of its Government and Parliament and the residence of the Swedish head of state. Stockholm became the official capital of the Swedish empire in 1634.
The city then attained an essential monopoly over trade between foreign merchants and other Swedish and Scandinavian territories. Sweden rose into a major European power in the 17th century that helped in the development of the city. By the end of 19th century, new industries emerged in Stockholm and it developed into an important trade and service center. It also became a key gateway point within Sweden. Later in the 20th century, it became a modern, technologically advanced and ethnically diverse city. Municipalities are responsible for government-mandated duties and it is also the largest municipality of Sweden.
Hotels: The hotels in Stockholm offer all facilities to its customers ranging from wireless to minibars. These hotels provide wonderful atmosphere that delights the guests. Some of the famous hotels in the city are Clarion Hotel Stockholm, Quality Hotel Globe, Sheraton Stockholm Hotel & Towers, Hotel Hellsten, Clarion Collection Hotel Wellington and Clarion Collection Hotel Tapto.
Tourist Attractions: Stockholm which has many attractive places, is a popular tourist destination. Its various museums and architectures constitute the interesting spots in the city.
Places of Attraction: Being the state capital, Stockholm houses many national culture institutions. The notable buildings in the city include large German Church, several mansions and palaces such as the Riddarhuset, the Bonde Palace, the Tessin Palace, the Oxenstierna Palace and Riddarholmskyrkan -the oldest building in Stockholm. Stockholm Palace erected in baroque style, Storkyrkan Cathedral, the Episcopal seat of the Bishop of Stockholm and Skogskyrkogarden, the Forest Cemetery gives visitors a fantastic experience. The landmark of the city is the Stockholm City Hall. Swedish National Museum of Fine Arts, with Sweden's largest collection of art, The Museum of Modern Art, that contains works by foremost modern artists such as Picasso and Salvador Dali, Stockholm City Museum, Skansen, the archetype of open air museums and the Vasa museum are the well known museums attracted by the tourists.
| COUNTRY | Sweden |
| LOCATION | Situated on the east coast of Sweden at the mouth of lake Malaren and its adjacent Stockholm archipelago, the central part of Stockholm consists of fourteen islands. The city center is situated in the Riddarfjarden bay. |
| GEOGRAPHIC COORDINATES | Latitude 59º21' N, Longitude 18º4' E |
| POPULATION | 795,163 (2007) |
|
|
