Kungstornen
– Stockholm’s Twin Towers of the 1920s

In the heart of Stockholm, the twin towers of Kungstornen—the “King’s Towers”—rise above Kungsgatan as enduring icons of early 20th-century architecture. Located in the Norrmalm district, these skyscrapers are not only visually arresting but also historically significant as two of the early modern high-rise buildings in Europe.

Built during the 1920s, Kungstornen marked Stockholm’s first step into vertical urban modernity. Inspired by American skyscrapers yet adapted to a European cityscape, the towers represent a transitional moment between Nordic Classicism and the emerging international style of high-rise architecture.

A brief history of Kungstornen

Designed by architects Sven Wallander and Ivar Callmander, construction of the towers took place between 1919 and 1925. The northern tower (Norra Kungstornet) was completed in 1924, followed by the southern tower (Södra Kungstornet) in 1925. At 60 meters (197 feet) and 17 stories each, they were considered groundbreaking for their time, clearly influenced by the soaring skyscrapers of New York’s Lower Manhattan.

Originally built as office buildings, the towers symbolized a new era of vertical urban development in Stockholm. Notably, the southern tower is adorned with classical sculptures of Roman deities—Mercury and Neptune—created by sculptor Aron Sandberg.

Architectural highlights

Within Stockholm’s architectural evolution, Kungstornen stand alongside landmarks such as Stockholm City Hall, Stockholm Concert Hall, and Stockholm Public Library, illustrating the city’s transition from monumental civic architecture to modern urban verticality.

• Design: Built with concrete frames, the towers reflect early 20th-century ideals of height, symmetry, and modernism.
• Sculptures: Four decorative statues—Fortuna, Mercury, Neptune, and Victory—grace the southern tower, adding classical elegance to its facade.
• Illumination: Crowned with lighting that has long made them stand out on the skyline, the towers remain nighttime landmarks across the city.

Visiting Kungstornen

Kungstornen is easily accessible from all parts of Stockholm. Just a short walk east of Hötorget and beside Malmskillnadsbron, the towers offer an ideal stop on a city tour. Nearby highlights include:

• Hötorget: A vibrant public square known for food markets and cultural events.
• Stockholm Concert Hall – Nobel Prize ceremony venue nearby
• Stockholm Public Library – a nearby landmark of Nordic Classicism
• Gamla Stan: The charming Old Town, filled with cobbled streets and historic buildings.

Tips for tourists

• Golden Hour: Sunset casts a warm glow on the towers—ideal for photography.
• Photo Angles: Capture the towers from multiple vantage points along Kungsgatan for dramatic skyline shots.
• Relax Nearby: Enjoy a coffee or meal at one of the local cafes or restaurants nearby after your visit.

Conclusion

Kungstornen are more than architectural landmarks—they represent a pivotal era in Stockholm’s history. Their elegant symmetry and ambitious scale still impress nearly a century later. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or simply enjoy discovering unique cityscapes, a visit to Kungstornen is a must while exploring Stockholm.

Among Europe’s earliest skyscrapers, the twin Kungstornen towers are featured in our Architectural Landmarks collection — milestones in Stockholm’s embrace of vertical modernity.