Black Friars' Monastery of Stockholm, Medieval monastery in Stadsholmen, Sweden
The Black Friars' Monastery is a medieval monastery on Stadsholmen whose remains are now managed by the Museum of Medieval Stockholm. The site features seven brick vaults in its basement rooms, which represent the original structural layout from the 14th century.
The Dominican order received the land in 1336 from King Magnus IV and established their monastery on Stadsholmen island. It grew to become a major religious center that influenced Stockholm's development over several centuries.
The Dominican monks living here wore distinctive black robes and became known figures in Stockholm's community, offering spiritual guidance and aid to local residents. Their presence shaped religious life on the island for generations.
The basement vaults are part of the Museum of Medieval Stockholm and can be visited during regular museum hours. The location is centrally situated on Stadsholmen island, making it easy to reach on foot and convenient to combine with other sights in the area.
The monastery served as a prison for high-ranking individuals, including Queen Christina of Saxony, who was held there following the Siege of Tre Kronor in 1502. This unexpected use reveals how the site became entangled in Stockholm's political events beyond its religious purpose.
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