June 18: Stockholm

Today after breakfast we had a lecture with one of our Swedish guides concerning the geography, history and political system of the Swedish nation, Following that, we departed for an orientation tour of Stockholm by private bus.  By this time, it was noon, and our lunch venue was at the Villa Godhem on Djurgarden Island, home to several major museums.  Our menu was full of delightful dishes—mashed potatoes, Swedish meatballs (an amazing dish), cucumber salad, lingonberries, and for dessert a delightful cup of coffee.  Nancy was missing from the group, as she needed rest and relaxation this morning (she ended sleeping several hours straight and is now much more chipper)!!!!  A much improved Nancy!

After lunch came the important decision as to which museum to select.  I chose the Nordiska museet or Nordic Museum, which tells the story of Nordic life and traditions from the 16th century onwards, through furniture and interiors, fashion and jewelry, glass and porcelain.  Special exhibits there temporarily are “The Arctic—While the Ice is Melting” and “Paris of the North”concerning the NK Stockholm department store’s creation of a French-inspired atelier of clothes which influenced Swedish fashion design.  One of the pieces which the famous actress Greta Garbo wore when she played in the silent film “Selma Lagerloef” was also shown.  

The museum was founded back in 1873 by Arthur Hazelius, and was designed in Renaissance style by a Swedish architect named Clason.  The museum opened in 1907.  The heart of the museum is an enormous 126 meters long, and features a ceiling 24 meters high.  At the center is a large oak statue of King Gustav Vasa (1523-1560) designed by a Swedish sculptor whose work I had seen and loved last time I visited in 2008 or so—Carl Milles.  

I spent about three hours in the museum, then took the streetcar back to the hotel.  Nancy had recovered, and we went out to get a few things for a little dinner on our own—kale salad, a sandwich featuring some of the wonderful breath we have had the past few days; a lemon-lime drink, and yogurt and hot tea for dessert.  Nancy is organizing while I write this blog.  Tomorrow off to the Vasa Ship Museum and more.