Nationalmuseet (National Museum of Fine Arts), Stockholm (must see)

The National Museum of Fine Arts, commonly known as the National Museum, is Sweden's national gallery and one of the country's most important cultural institutions. Located on the Blasieholmen peninsula in central Stockholm, the museum has a rich history and a diverse range of operations that extend well beyond its main location.

The museum was founded in 1792 as the Kungliga Museet ("Royal Museum") and has been central to Sweden's cultural heritage ever since. Its current building, which opened in 1866 and was designed by German architect Friedrich August Stüler, was inspired by northern Italian Renaissance architecture. The museum's exterior may appear relatively austere, but its interior is spacious, featuring a grand staircase that leads to the topmost galleries.

The museum has expanded and renovated over the years to enhance the visitor experience and preserve its collections. In 1961, it was enlarged to include more workshops and a restaurant was added in 1996. A major renovation from 2013 to 2018 modernized the infrastructure, enabling more of the collection to be displayed and ensuring modern security, accessibility, and climate control standards.

Beyond its main location in Stockholm, the National Museum's operations include the National Portrait Gallery at Gripsholm, the Gustavsberg Porcelain Museum, various castle collections, and the Swedish Institute in Paris (Institut Tessin). Additionally, in 2018, the National Museum Jamtli was opened in Östersund, bringing parts of the collection to northern Sweden.

The museum's benefactors include notable figures such as King Gustav III and Carl Gustaf Tessin, whose contributions have been pivotal in shaping the museum's collection and legacy. The National Museum stands today not only as a repository of Sweden's artistic treasures but also as a dynamic institution dedicated to preserving and promoting the nation's cultural heritage.