Ever gazed upon a building that whispers tales of kings and queens? Here before us stands the Royal Stables a magnificent testament to Swedish history. For centuries this wasn’t just a place for horses. It was a vital part of the monarchy’s life.
The Royal Stables boasts a long and fascinating past. Its earliest origins trace back to 1535 under the reign of Gustav Vasa. The first stables were located on Helgeandsholmen near Stockholm Palace. They quickly proved inadequate. The stables were moved several times before finding their current home.
The present Royal Stables we see today weren’t built until much later. They were completed in 1894. Architects Ernst Jacobsson and Fritz Eckert designed them in a striking Medievalist style. The structures were a bold and at the time somewhat controversial new addition to the city. King Oscar II himself inaugurated this grand complex. The design features a courtyard surrounded by high brick walls and towers. It’s quite a sight isn’t it?
Inside the Royal Stables you’ll find much more than just horses. The stables house roughly 20 horses all of a rich bay color. These aren’t just any horses though. They’re meticulously chosen for their size temperament and gait. The horses undergo rigorous training for years before they are ready for the bustling city life of Stockholm.
The Royal Stables aren’t just about horses. They also hold a stunning collection of carriages sleighs and coaches. Around 50 of these impressive vehicles are carefully preserved here. One standout is the magnificent State Coach also known as the Glass Coach. This stunning coach dates back to 1897. It’s used for important state occasions like the opening of parliament or when receiving heads of state.
It’s not just horses and carriages that reside here. The Royal Stables also have a fleet of cars. These provide the royal family with everyday transportation. Some of the cars are quite classic. There’s a 1950 Daimler Limousine DS420 and a Cadillac Fleetwood from 1969. Others are more modern. The Royal Stables even aim to use environmentally friendly vehicles. The stables carry out around 6000 transport missions every year.
The Royal Stables are more than just a place to keep royal transport. They represent a significant cultural heritage. This is a living museum showcasing centuries of royal tradition. The stables are open for guided tours so you can explore this fascinating piece of Swedish history yourself. So next time you’re in Stockholm make sure to visit the Royal Stables and discover their magic for yourselves.