Lejonbacken

Lejonbacken, which means "Lion Slope" in English, is a striking system of ramps leading to the northern entrance of the Royal Palace in Stockholm. The ramps are named after a pair of carved Medici lions prominently placed on the stone balustrades. The history of the structure goes back to the mid-17th century, when the first plans for rebuilding the medieval Tre Kronor palace included ramps on its north side. After a devastating fire destroyed the old palace completely in 1697, the plans were quickly adapted. The lions and their pedestals were installed as early as 1704, while the lower side sections were not completed until much later, between 1826 and 1834, to designs by Per Axel Nyström.

From the crest between the ramps, you get a sweeping panoramic view over the Norrbro bridge, which leads to the parliament island of Helgeandsholmen and on to Gustav Adolfs torg. There, the Royal Opera and the Crown Prince's Palace rise up. The eastern ramp leads down to Strömbron and Skeppsbron, while the western one leads to Mynttorget. Below the entire complex, the Slottskajen waterfront promenade runs along the Stallkanalen canal. The architecture is notable for its use of various regional stones, including Stockholm granite for the sturdy foundations and railings, and sandstone and marble for the more detailed ornamentation and balustrades.

Directly beneath the ramps is the Tre Kronor Museum, which opened in 1999 and presents the history and archaeological remains of the medieval predecessor of the palace, dating from the 13th century. Within the 16-foot-thick walls and beneath the large brick arches, you can see historical objects and modern models that trace the palace's development from its Viking beginnings in the 10th century to the present day. The northeastern wing of the palace also houses the Gustav III Museum of Antiquities, which has displayed more than 200 sculptures and antiquities since 1794, all collected by King Gustav III during a trip to Italy.