Estocolmo

Estocolmo (Swedish: Stockholm) is the capital and largest city of Sweden. It is also the most populous urban area in Scandinavia.

Overview:

Stockholm is situated on the east coast of Sweden, where Lake Mälaren flows into the Baltic Sea. The city is built upon 14 islands, connected by over 50 bridges, giving it the nickname "Venice of the North." Stockholm is the cultural, political, media, and economic centre of Sweden. It is a global city with a high standard of living and consistently ranks highly in quality-of-life surveys.

History:

Stockholm's history dates back to the Viking Age. The city was officially founded in 1252, reportedly by Birger Jarl, and quickly grew in importance due to its strategic location for trade and defense. During the Kalmar Union, Stockholm was often a focal point of power struggles. Gustav Vasa entered Stockholm in 1523, marking the end of Danish rule and the beginning of Sweden's era as an independent kingdom. Stockholm has since been the capital of Sweden (with a brief interruption) and has played a crucial role in Swedish and Scandinavian history.

Geography and Climate:

Stockholm is located at 59°20′N 18°03′E. The city's geography is characterized by its waterways and numerous parks and green spaces. Stockholm experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are mild and pleasant, while winters are cold and often snowy.

Demographics:

Stockholm has a diverse population. As of 2023, the city municipality has over 975,000 inhabitants, while the larger Stockholm metropolitan area has a population exceeding 2.4 million.

Economy:

Stockholm is a major financial centre and a hub for technology, research, and development. Key industries include IT, finance, biotechnology, and tourism. Many large Swedish companies are headquartered in Stockholm.

Culture:

Stockholm is home to numerous museums, theatres, and cultural institutions, including the Vasa Museum, the Moderna Museet (Museum of Modern Art), and the Royal Swedish Opera. The city also hosts various festivals and events throughout the year. The Nobel Prize ceremonies are held annually in Stockholm (except for the Nobel Peace Prize).

Government:

Stockholm is governed by a municipal council (kommunfullmäktige) and a municipal executive board (kommunstyrelse). The Mayor of Stockholm is the head of the municipal government.

Transportation:

Stockholm has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, metro (tunnelbana), and commuter trains. Arlanda Airport is the main international airport serving the city.

Tourism:

Stockholm is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year. Popular attractions include Gamla Stan (the old town), the Royal Palace, Skansen (an open-air museum), and numerous other historical and cultural sites.