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In addition, Gothenburg began to gain importance as the country’s main trading port, building and maintaining an economic edge over Stockholm until the 19th century. Eventually, the development of new industry led to Stockholm’s resurgence, which has continued to this day. Stockholm was originally settled to protect the country from invasion by foreign powers and quickly became an important regional power. In less than a century from its establishment, it was the most populated city in Scandinavia. In 1521, after the Stockholm Bloodbath, Sweden was separated from Denmark, becoming a sovereign nation, with Stockholm designated its capital in 1634. Not long afterward however, development came to an abrupt halt when Stockholm became victim to the plague (the Black Death) that swept through Europe during 1713-1714 and also suffered from the impact of the Great Northern War. It wasn’t until the mid-19th century that Stockholm’s economy re-emerged as a dominant force in Sweden. The city had maintained its political and cultural dominance and as it developed a new industrial base, it began to thrive once again. Industrial expansion led to another significant population growth spurt during the late 19th century and the city spread geographically, integrating settlements that were outside the city centre. Tourists continue to visit in large numbers, due to its excellent infrastructure, its beautiful setting, the blend of old and modern Swedish architectural designs and its friendly, relaxed atmosphere. | |
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