The Nobel Prize: Celebrating achievement and legacy
Discover the Nobel Prize Museum (Nobelprismuseet), a world-renowned institution in Stockholm’s Old Town (Gamla Stan). Housed in the historic Stockholm Stock Exchange building (Börshuset), the museum honors the extraordinary contributions of Nobel Prize laureates across science, literature, peace, and economics.
Explore the Nobel Prize Museum
Since 1901, the Nobel Prize has recognized individuals and organizations making groundbreaking contributions to humanity. At the museum, permanent and rotating exhibitions spotlight Nobel laureates in physics, chemistry, medicine, literature, peace, and economic sciences—revealing the stories, struggles, and achievements behind each award.
Engaging exhibits and experiences
The museum offers a wide array of immersive features:
- Interactive Exhibits: Explore major scientific and literary breakthroughs through hands-on displays.
- Films and Multimedia: Watch compelling documentaries and digital stories about laureates and their work.
- Guided Tours: Gain deeper insights into the history and impact of the Nobel Prize.
- Temporary Exhibitions: Discover rotating displays tied to current global themes and laureate legacies.
- Lectures and Seminars: Attend discussions with experts, Nobel laureates, and thought leaders.
- Educational Workshops: Participate in family-friendly learning activities suitable for all ages.
Don’t miss the museum’s shop for Nobel-themed books and souvenirs—and the acclaimed Bistro Nobel.
Alfred Nobel: The man behind the prize
Alfred Nobel (1833–1896), a Swedish chemist and inventor best known for developing dynamite, held over 350 patents. A mistaken obituary calling him a “merchant of death” prompted him to rethink his legacy. In his will, Nobel dedicated his fortune to establishing the Nobel Prizes—awards meant to honor contributions that uplift humanity.
The first prizes were awarded in 1901; today, they remain among the world’s most prestigious honors, promoting peace, knowledge, and progress.
A historic setting: The Börshuset building
Built between 1773 and 1778, the Börshuset is a neoclassical masterpiece designed by Erik Palmstedt. Once Sweden’s stock exchange and a WWII military communications hub, the building now houses the Nobel Prize Museum, the Swedish Academy, and the Nobel Library. Its elegant symmetry and Enlightenment ideals make it a fitting tribute to Nobel’s vision.
🧭 Nearby attractions
- 👑 The Royal Palace:
Tour the Swedish monarchy’s official residence, complete with Royal Apartments and the Treasury. - 🏘️ Stortorget Square:
The historic heart of Gamla Stan, known for its architecture and cafés. - ⛪ Storkyrkan (Cathedral):
Stockholm’s oldest church, featuring Gothic architecture and the statue of St. George and the Dragon. - 🏛️ The Swedish Parliament (Riksdagshuset):
The political center of Sweden, located on nearby Helgeandsholmen Island. - 🎩 The House of Nobility (Riddarhuset):
A beautiful building dedicated to Sweden’s aristocracy, showcasing noble coats of arms. - ⚰️ Riddarholmen Church:
Royal burial site and one of Stockholm’s oldest preserved medieval structures. - ↕️ Mårten Trotzigs Gränd:
Walk through the narrowest alley in Stockholm—just 90 cm wide. - 🌙 Järnpojke (Iron Boy):
A charming and tiny statue, known as “The Little Boy Looking at the Moon.”
Conclusion
The Nobel Prize Museum offers a deep dive into ideas that change the world. It connects visitors with stories of discovery, creativity, and peace—set in one of Stockholm’s most historic and inspiring spaces.
Nobel Prize Museum
Nobelprismuseet
