Discount Hotels Stockholm
Historical interest: Stockholm
    
Stockholm, which means 'tree trunk island', was allegedly founded in the mid-13th
century by the chief, Birger Jarl, who ordered the construction of a fort on
one of the islands in the Baltic. In the 14th century, Stockholm grew to be
the largest city in Sweden, dominated by its huge castle, which was never captured
by force.
During this period, Sweden was part of the Kalmar Union with Denmark and was
effectively a Danish province. Discontent simmered and reached a head in 1471
when the Danish King Christian I besieged Stockholm but was defeated at the
battle of Brunkeberg outside the city gates. Trouble between the two countries
reached its worst crisis in 1520 when 82 Swedish nobles were beheaded in the
main square, Stortorget, after being betrayed at a feast.
In 1523, Stockholm achieved its independence from Denmark and was proclaimed
the capital of Sweden in 1634. It prospered during 17th century Swedish military
imperialism, which saw Swedish armies victorious throughout Europe. Unfortunately,
the city was hit hard by the plague of 1711 and 1,200 people died. Many fine
buildings were constructed during an artistic boom in the 18th century; 1860
saw further town planning which created the wide boulevards seen today.
The 20th century saw rapid industrial and population growth, and in 1912 the
summer Olympics were held in the city. Stockholm remained free from damage during
WWII, due to Swedish neutrality. More recently, the city suffered during the
1980s due to high costs of living and recession. However, the 1990s and beyond
have seen a boom in tourism and investment.
Selection of hotels in this region:
Clarion Hotel Stockholm | | Malardrottningen Hotel | | Nordic Light Hotel | | Nordic Sea Hotel | | Sheraton Stockholm Hotel and Towers | | Radisson SAS Strand Hotel Stockholm | | Scandic Hotel Continental Stockholm | |
Click below for a
full list of hotels and online booking
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