- Address: Riksgatan 1, 100 12 Stockholm, Sweden
- Phone: +46 8 786 40 00
- Opening: January 12, 1905
- Architectural style: Neo-Baroque
- Architect: Aron Johansson
Magic Stockholm is recognized not only as the capital of Scandinavia, but also one of the main cultural centers of the world. Built on 14 islands , in the place where Lake Mälaren and the Baltic Sea meet, the city has more than 8 centuries of interesting and eventful history, which is reflected in many sights . One of the most important constructions not only of Stockholm, but of all Sweden , is the building of the Riksdag. Let's talk about its features in more detail.
Basic information
The Riksdagshuset building is the official residence of the Swedish parliament. The structure is located in the central part of the capital of the state, in the historic district of Gamla Stan, and occupies half of the small island Helgeansholmen, where, besides it, there is also the Museum of the Middle Ages. It should be noted that earlier the House of Parliament was in a building on about. Riddarholm , where today the meetings of the Court of Appeal are held.
The new structure was built between 1897 and 1905 by the architect Aron Johansson. By the way, initially one of the two buildings of the complex was assigned to the Swedish National Bank, but after the bicameral Riksdag was replaced in 1971 by a unicameral one, and the bank moved, a new meeting hall was built in the second part of the building.
Architectural features of the Riksdag building
The new building of the Swedish parliament is very interesting not only because of its state significance, but also in its amazing architecture. It is curious that the whole complex is made in neoclassical style, and only for the central facade are the features of the eclectic Neo-Baroque Renaissance. We will tell you in more detail about the peculiarities of the external and internal view of the structure.
- Exterior. The majestic appearance of the Riksdag building attracts tens of thousands of curious eyes of tourists every year. The main decoration of the central facade is the national emblem, made of granite, located directly above the front door. Above the first floor are carved out of stone 57 mascarons dedicated to outstanding Swedish figures. Among them there are portraits of the architect Aron Johansson, a government official and composer Gunnar Wennerberg and many others. etc. In addition, at the top of the building is a statue in the form of a female figure, personifying Mother Sweden (Moder Svea) - one of the symbols of the Swedish nation (author - sculptor Theodore Lundberg).
- Interior. In contrast to the facade, the interior of the building of the Riksdag of Sweden is made in the Art Nouveau style. The central place is allocated to a luxurious concrete staircase, which, if you climb, you can get to the 2nd floor. Its main feature is the glass roof through which daylight passes. In the hall where the lower chamber of the bicameral Riksdag once sat, pay attention to the three murals of the famous Swedish artist Axel Tornman: "Landscape with lighthouses", "Torgny Lagman in the court in Uppsala" and "Engelbrekt at the head of the peasant army". The hall is currently used for other purposes: here every year at the beginning of December, the "For a Correct Lifestyle" award is given, and various ceremonial events and ceremonies are held.
How to visit?
The Riksdag building is open to all comers, since honesty and transparency are the main determinants of Swedish democracy. You can come to public hearings, participate in discussions or simply visit the landmark during the sightseeing tour , and absolutely free of charge. Thus, everyone can learn more about the work and responsibilities of members of parliament, as well as the history of Rikstag.
From mid-September to June, while the parliamentary session is taking place, organized tours are held on Saturdays and Sundays (excursions in English are only available at 1:30 pm). In the summer (June 26-August 18) visit the House of Parliament on a weekday from 12:00 to 16:00.
How to get there?
There are several ways to get to the Rikstag building:
- By taxi, personal or rented car .
- By public transport - not far from the North Bridge, which passes through. Helgeandsholmen and connects the Old Town (Gamla Stan) with the district of Norrmalm, there is a bus stop Gustav Adolfs torg, to which routes No.53, 57 and 65 follow. From there for 5 min. You can walk to the Parliament House on foot.