Stockholm

Why it's the capital

According to Erik's Chronicle, Birger Jarl founded the town to protect Sweden from attacks by sea. By 1252, when its name was first written down, iron from the Bergslagen mines had made it an important trading place, and in 1634 it became the official capital.

Fun facts

1. The name joins two Swedish words: stock, meaning "log", and holm, meaning "islet".
2. The Nobel Prize ceremonies and banquet are held each year in Stockholm, at the Concert Hall and the City Hall.
3. The Stockholm Metro, opened in 1950, is known for its decorated stations and has been called the longest art gallery in the world.