Långbro gård

Gazing at Långbro gård, can you sense the echoes of centuries past? Långbro gård, mentioned as early as 1477, stands as a testament to time. This grand estate, nestled in the heart of Söderort, whispers tales of a rich history. Långbro gård served as a säteri, a type of manor estate, by the late 16th century. Today, the City of Stockholm owns Långbro gård, entrusting its care to AB Stadsholmen. The main building and the remaining wing now provide public housing, a modern purpose for a historic landmark. Both structures bear the prestigious blue plaques from the Stockholm City Museum. These plaques signify their “exceptionally high cultural-historical value.” Imagine the lives lived within these walls. The very name “Långbro” refers to a medieval kavelbro, a type of bridge that once spanned Brännkyrkasjön, connecting the estate’s lands to the priest’s lands north of the lake. This bridge formed a vital part of Göta landsväg, a major road. Långbro gård’s history intertwines with prominent figures like Gabriel Kristiernsson-Oxenstierna, uncle of the famous Chancellor Axel Oxenstierna, who owned the estate in 1562. Stockholm Mayor Olof Gregersson held ownership from 1581. A fire ravaged Långbro gård around 1680, but it rose from the ashes, much like the stories it holds. The current manor house, with its hipped säteri roof, likely dates from the early 18th century. The wing is thought to be even older. Although the farm buildings are gone, the main building and wing stand tall. Even a fire in 1993 could not erase their presence. They were carefully restored, preserving their connection to the past. The broad front facade of the main building was likely added around the mid-19th century, when the facades were also plastered. Now, the courtyard facade stands proudly, paneled and painted in a cheerful yellow. Långbro gård witnessed the transformation of its surroundings. Alfred Söderlund, nicknamed “Långbrokungen” (the Långbro King), began dividing and selling plots of land from the estate in 1898, ultimately selling around 500 plots by 1918. This very act shaped the development of both Långbro Hospital and the villa communities of Linboda and Långbrodal. As you stand before Långbro gård, remember the layers of history beneath your feet. From medieval bridges to modern housing, this estate embodies the enduring spirit of Långbro.