Karlaplan, Star-shaped roundabout in Östermalm, Stockholm, Sweden.
Karlaplan is a star-shaped square in the Östermalm district of Stockholm, from which five major streets radiate outward. At its center stands a roundabout with a fountain, surrounded by rows of mature chestnut trees and a mix of paved paths and open lawns.
Planning for the square began in 1896, drawing on the radial street layouts that had become popular in Paris. Its construction helped shape the growth of Östermalm into one of the city's main residential districts.
The name of the square honors three Swedish kings named Karl, a connection visible on the street signs surrounding the space. Benches around the central fountain are a common stop for people from the neighborhood who pass through on their daily routines.
The square is easy to reach on foot or by public transport, with metro stations and bus stops close by. Paved paths and seating areas make it easy to move around at any time of day, including for visitors with limited mobility.
During World War I, the green areas were turned into vegetable gardens to help feed the city during food shortages. This chapter in the square's life shows how an ordinary public space can take on a very different role when circumstances demand it.
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