Gamla Stan is a popular tourist destination in Stockholm, Sweden, known for its picturesque narrow streets, colorful buildings, and historic landmarks. But have you ever wondered what Gamla Stan was called before it was called Gamla Stan? In this article, we will explore the history of this charming old town and shed some light on its previous names.
Birger Jarls Torg
The history of Gamla Stan can be traced back to the 13th century when Birger Jarl, the founder of Stockholm, built a fortress on the island of Stadsholmen, which is now the heart of Gamla Stan. The square in front of the Royal Palace was named after Birger Jarl and was called Birger Jarls Torg.
Stortorget
The current name of the main square in Gamla Stan is Stortorget, which means "The Big Square" in English. This name was adopted in the 17th century when the square was expanded and became the center of the city's trade and commerce. The square is surrounded by buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries and is famous for its Christmas market and the Nobel Prize Banquet.
Munkbrotorget
In the Middle Ages, there was a monastery in Gamla Stan called Munkbro Kloster. The square in front of the monastery was called Munkbrotorget. Today, this square is known for its vibrant nightlife and is a popular spot for locals and tourists to enjoy a drink or a meal.
Köpmantorget
Köpmantorget, which means "The Merchants' Square" in English, was the center of the city's trade and commerce in the Middle Ages. The square was home to the city's most important merchants and traders and was a hub for economic activity. Today, the square is surrounded by historic buildings and is a popular spot for outdoor concerts and events.
Järntorget
Järntorget, which means "The Iron Square" in English, was named after the iron merchants who traded in the area in the Middle Ages. The square is home to one of the oldest buildings in Stockholm, the Storkyrkan Cathedral, which dates back to the 13th century. Today, the square is a popular spot for street performances and is surrounded by cafes and restaurants.
Helgeandsholmen
Helgeandsholmen is the small island located between Gamla Stan and Stockholm's modern city center. The island has a rich history and was home to several important institutions, including the Swedish parliament and the Royal Mint. The island was also known as "The Island of the Holy Spirit" and was named after a monastery that was located there in the Middle Ages.
Mälartorget
Mälartorget, which means "The Lake Square" in English, was named after the nearby Lake Mälaren, which is one of Sweden's largest lakes. The square was once the center of the city's fishing industry and was home to many fishmongers and seafood restaurants. Today, the square is a popular spot for outdoor markets and is surrounded by historic buildings.
Kornhamnstorg
Kornhamnstorg, which means "The Corn Harbor Square" in English, was named after the corn warehouses that were located in the area in the Middle Ages. The square is home to some of Gamla Stan's most popular restaurants and cafes and is a great place to enjoy a meal or a drink.
Riddarholmen
Riddarholmen is the small island located just west of Gamla Stan. The island has a rich history and is home to several important landmarks, including the Riddarholmen Church, which is the burial place of Sweden's monarchs, and the Swedish Parliament Building. The island was named after the knights who lived there in the Middle Ages.
Norra och Södra Bankoholmen
Bankoholmen is the small island located just east of Gamla Stan. The island was named after the banks that were located there in the Middle Ages. The island was divided into two parts, Norra Bankoholmen and Södra Bankoholmen, which means "The Northern Bank Island" and "The Southern Bank Island" in English, respectively.
Conclusion
Gamla Stan has had many names throughout its long history, reflecting the island's rich and varied past. From Birger Jarls Torg to Stortorget, from Munkbrotorget to Köpmantorget, each name tells a story about the people and events that shaped this charming old town. Today, Gamla Stan is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from all over the world who come to admire its beauty and immerse themselves in its history.
