Kronhuset, Redbrick architectural complex in Västra Nordstaden, Sweden
Kronhuset is a red-brick architectural complex in Västra Nordstaden featuring Dutch design influences and a large assembly hall on the ground floor. The surrounding Bodarna buildings form a cohesive ensemble that extends around the plaza.
The Riksdag convened here on 4 January 1660 under Karl X Gustav, making the ground-floor hall the Rikssal; the four-year-old crown prince was proclaimed king there on 1 March. From 1680 the lower floor served as the Garrison Parish church until the last service on 25 March 1898. The state sold the building to Gothenburg in 1927, and after a three-year restoration King Gustav VI Adolf reopened it on 17 May 1957.
The yellow sheds around the courtyard, Kronhusbodarna, were built in two stages: the eastern row in 1756–59, the western in 1764–69. They held a smithy, a wheelwright and workshops, later railway stores, and since 1971 private tenants. Today they sell pottery, glassware, leather goods and furnishings, alongside a watchmaker and a café.
The courtyard is paved with cobblestones and ringed by the yellow Kronhusbodarna sheds, with outdoor seating in front of the main building. The site lies in Västra Nordstaden, a short walk from the central station and tram stops. The Rikssal is not always open, so check opening times before planning a visit.
The Rikssal on the ground floor has no load-bearing pillars; its ceiling joists hang from the roof truss, which rests on the masonry. To brace this, 28 contreforts were built into the walls, 12 on each long side and 2 on each gable. Iron beams replaced 12 old roof beams in the 1950s renovation.
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