Kronhuset

Overview

Kronhuset is the oldest secular building in Gothenburg, a red-brick storehouse built in 1654 for the Swedish military. The surrounding Kronhusbodarna courtyard houses traditional artisan workshops — a glassblower, potter, silversmith, and clockmaker — in picturesque 18th-century wooden buildings.

Highlights

• Artisan Workshops (Kronhusbodarna): Working craft studios where you can watch glassblowing, pottery, and silversmithing, and buy handmade souvenirs.
• Parliament Hall: The upper floor of Kronhuset served as a temporary venue for the Swedish Riksdag in 1660.
• Christmas Market: In December, the courtyard hosts a charming traditional Christmas market.

History

Kronhuset was built in 1643–1654 as an artillery depot. In 1660, the young Charles XI was crowned King of Sweden in its upper hall while the Riksdag convened below. The building was restored in the 1920s and the artisan workshops in the surrounding Kronhusbodarna were established in the 1970s to preserve traditional crafts.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: The glassblower's workshop is the most dramatic — arrive in the morning when demonstrations are most frequent.
• Tip 2: The courtyard café serves excellent Swedish fika with kanelbullar (cinnamon buns).
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.