Riddarholmen (Swedish: “The Knights’ Islet”) is a small islet in central Stockholm, Sweden. The island forms part of Gamla Stan, the old town, and houses a number of private palaces dating from the 17th century. The main landmark is the church Riddarholmskyrkan, the royal burial church since the 16th century and where a number of Swedish monarchs lie buried.

The western end of the island gives a magnificent panoramic and photogenic view of the bay Riddarfjärden, often used by TV journalists with Stockholm City Hall in the background. A statue of Birger Jarl, traditionally regarded to be the founder of Stockholm, is standing on a pillar in front of the Bonde Palace north of Riddarholmskyrkan.

Other notable buildings include the Old Parliament Building in the south-eastern corner, the Old National Archive on the eastern shore, and the so called Norstedt Building, the old printing house of the publisher Norstedts, the tower roof of which is a well-known silhouette on the city’s skyline.

Gamla Stan (Old Town), Stockholm, Sweden — Jaynes Gallery / www.danitadelimont.com

• This nation has long had a reputation for independence and intelligence.
  And for good meatballs
• Many people think this is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.
  What do you think?
• People have been talking about the good looks of this country’s citizens since the 8th century AD.
  Watch one of its most famous beauties
• Founded in the 13th century, this city has had a lot of time to grow into a maze of winding streets and alleyways.
  A good map always helps