Moderna Museet (The Modern Museum), Stockholm (must see)

The Modern Museum (Moderna Museet), located on the island of Skeppsholmen in central Stockholm, is the country's premier state museum for modern and contemporary art. Established on May 9, 1958, the museum has become a key cultural institution, not just for its extensive collection but also for its role in the contemporary art scene. In 2009, the museum expanded its reach by opening a branch, Moderna Museet Malmö, in a building that previously housed the Rooseum Centre for Contemporary Art.

The museum's collection boasts a remarkable array of Swedish and international modern and contemporary art, featuring works by renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, Marcel Duchamp, Louise Bourgeois, Niki de Saint Phalle, Henri Matisse, and Robert Rauschenberg. Among its notable pieces is a model of Tatlin's Tower, a tribute to the visionary Russian artist Vladimir Tatlin.

In addition to its permanent collection, the Modern Museum is known for its vibrant program of temporary exhibitions, showcasing contemporary art from around the world. The museum has a history of hosting innovative events, such as the 2005 Onedotzero festival, which attracted a younger audience with its mix of screenings, installations, talks, and live audio-visual performances.

The museum's physical space has undergone significant changes since its inception. Initially housed in Exercishuset on Skeppsholmen, it was temporarily relocated between 1994 and 1998 to the Spårvägshallarna in Stockholm during the construction of a new building. The new museum building, designed by the acclaimed Spanish architect Rafael Moneo, now serves as the museum's main venue. Additionally, the Pontus Hultén Study Gallery, designed by Renzo Piano, adds another layer of architectural significance to the museum's facilities.

One of the most dramatic episodes in the museum's history occurred on November 8, 1993, when six Picasso paintings and two works by Georges Braque, valued at over £40 million, were stolen in a daring heist. The burglars, inspired by the 1955 French film "Rififi," entered through the roof at night. Fortunately, all but one of the stolen works have since been recovered.

Why You Should Visit:
The museum holds some iconic pieces, paying equal attention to contemporary artists at home and abroad.
Its design & signage are nice to explore, as is the garden outside with over a dozen cool sculptures.

Tip:
Stop in the café for a drink or cake and enjoy the view overlooking the boats and the harbor (try to grab a table by the window, or sit outdoors on the terrace).