Klara shelter, Cold War air-raid shelter in central Stockholm, Sweden
Klara shelter is an air-raid bunker located beneath Sergels torg square in central Stockholm with two levels and multiple entry points. The underground facility includes sections for vehicles and is equipped with an extensive ventilation system to manage air quality during use.
The shelter was built in the 1960s during Norrmalm's urban redevelopment and was designed to protect civilians and government officials during Cold War tensions. It reflects Sweden's civil defense strategy during a period of geopolitical uncertainty.
The shelter represents Swedish civil defense strategy, with separate sections designated for Parliament members and specific evacuation protocols for government leadership.
The shelter is accessible through multiple entrances located around the square, making it easy to find and approach. On ground level, the space functions as a parking garage, so it blends naturally into daily life in the city.
The underground structure features heavy steel doors and removable walls that allow spaces to be reconfigured depending on needs. This flexibility was important so that the shelter could quickly adapt to different emergency scenarios.
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