Stockholm is the capital of Sweden, and consequently the site of its Government and Parliament as well as the residence of the Swedish head of state. Stockholm is one of the world’s most beautiful cities, splendidly spread out over fourteen islands in the interlock between Lake Mälaren and the magnificent Stockholm Archipelago seascape with its over 24.000 islands, islets and skerries. Stockholm is the Nordic regions largest city with historic and cultural grandeur unparalleled in Northern Europe.

Stockholm Municipality is an administrative unit defined by geographical borders. The officially adopted name for the municipality is City of Stockholm (Stockholms stad in Swedish). As a municipality, the City of Stockholm is subdivided into district councils, or boroughs, which carry responsibility for primary school, social, leisure and cultural services within their respective areas. The City of Stockholm is usually described in terms of its three main parts: Stockholm City Centre (Innerstaden), South Stockholm (Söderort) and West Stockholm (Västerort).  Stockholm is one third water, one third green belt and one third city. The island of Djurgården, the world’s first National City Park, is only a short walk from the pulse of the inner city.

Due to the city’s high northern latitude, the climate of Stockholm is extremely varied with distinct seasons. At the winter solstice in late December, the day lasts about six hours, whereas at the summer solstice in late June, Stockholm’s daylight period extends beyond eighteen hours. As a result, Stockholm is exposed to cold winters and mild summers.