Stockholm is on the must-visit list for anyone evenly remotely interested in visiting Scandinavia. So why bother with a blog page about a city already known for its spire dotted harbour horizons and butter-yellow colored buildings? What is there to add? Among this city of islands there are stories worth searching out and a mystery waiting to be solved.
First - Why do the Swedish flag colors differ from its Scandinavian relatives? The colors are found in its 1442 coat of arms and the graphic design mimics the Danish flag; Sweden’s chief rival in the 15c. The bright light blue ground represents justice, loyalty and truth while the gold cross for Christianity or generosity. The design was first documented in 1521.
Second - Who is the bronze fellow found perpetually leaning against a wall in the cobblestone streets of Gamla Stan (Old Town)? Evert Taube (1890-1976) is a Swedish author, artist, composer and one its most respected musicians and troubadour of Swedish ballads. Take a listen to a medley of his music!
Third - Does Pippy Longstocking ever age? AKA Pippi Långstrump hasn’t aged a day since she first appeared in 1945 as the orange pigtailed main character of countless books authored by Swedish author Astrid Lingren. Make note; mischief is reported as the secret ingredient in keeping her young.
Fourth - Who is Alfred Nobel and why the prize? Alfred Nobel (1833 - 1896) was a complex man. The Swedish philanthropist was also an industrialist, inventor who held 355 patents and discovered dynamite. He surprised those attending the reading of his will, with creating an endowment which established the Nobel Prize: I intend to leave at my death a large fund for the promotion of the peace idea, but I am skeptical as to its results. Maybe he was a karmic believer? The 5 annual prizes honor advancements in Peace, Chemistry, Literature, Medicine and Physics. Find the Nobel Prize Museum (Nobelmuseet) in the Old Town’s old stock exchange. The changing exhibits make this a thoughtful experience.
Have you ever considered the origin of the Bridal Shower? In 1684 Christopher Theil opened a public bathhouse, which included the extravagance of bathing amongst flower petals and herbal essences. Personal hygiene at the time was a bit hit or miss. Cleanliness of brides was highly prized and thus Rosenbads, rose enfused bath, followed by a party became a local tradition. If Mr Theil could only have seen into the future!
Where to stay? Always a big question. Hotel Skeppsholmen is located along the water in a 17th century building with a country chic vibe and all the modern conveniences. It’s located on the lovely small green island of the same name and easily accessible to Old Town or downtown in 10 minutes by ferry or foot. The Moderna Museet (Modern Museum) is also located there. It houses one of the world’s most comprehensive collection of modern art, 100,000 image of photography and outdoor sculptures, including Pablo Picasso’s 1962 sculpture Lunch in the Grass. Note: don’t plan a Monday visit, or maybe you should? The Moderna Museet is closed, but you can still wander the island and have a coffee at the hotel while quitetly watching Stockholm’s busy waterway.
What to do on a Monday? A number of the art museums are closed, so look for outdoor artists. It’s always a treat. There is also the Spiritmuseum and tasting room to explore the history of Aquavit. The open-air museum, Skansen, was one of the first of its kind and demonstrates traditional methods of making glass, bread, even medicine and includes 150 historical buildings and zoo with a collection of popular Nordic animals. Granddaughter Evelyn particularly likes the lynx.
Mystery question: do you know who this man is? Your not alone. Located in the lovely atrium area of the Kungliga Slottet (aka Royal Palace) between the cafe and gift shop, he stands over 10 feet tall among several others who are apparently from the same time period. But it’s the mustache that makes him stand out - clearly not in sync with his Roman robes and herbaceous crown. We asked and were referred to others on the palace staff but no one knew. King Carl Gustafsson XVI was in residence, but unfortunately not available. If you do find out, please let us know.
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