Located at Gustav Adolfs Torg in central Stockholm, Arvfurstens palats (the Palace of the Hereditary Prince) offers you a fascinating look at grand Swedish architecture and history. Designed by Erik Palmstedt and built between 1783 and 1794 for Princess Sophia Albertina, this historical monument incorporates an earlier 17th-century German-Dutch Renaissance palace originally owned by General Lennart Torstensson.
Since 1906, it has served as the seat of the Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, having previously been home to royal family members like King Oscar II and Gustav V. When exploring the surrounding area, you will see it sits directly opposite the Royal Swedish Opera, near the Sager Palace and Rosenbad, with the Norrbro bridge stretching south toward Old Town.
Inside, key rooms reflect its rich past: Matsalen displays portraits of former foreign affairs ministers, while Stora salongen features Late Gustavian style decor, cut glass chandeliers, and busts by Johan Tobias Sergel. You will also find Audiensrummet, showcasing intricate wood carvings by Gottlieb Iwersson, alongside Sällskapsrummet and Arbetsrummet, which house remarkable historical furnishings like a Georg Haupt desk with an inkstand originally intended for Marie Antoinette.
What to see at Arvfurstens palats
- Seeded at Gustav Adolfs Torg directly facing the Royal Swedish Opera
- Originally built 1783–1794 for Princess Sophia Albertina, incorporating a 1640s Renaissance palace
- Seat of the Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs since 1906
- Interior rooms feature Late Gustavian designs by Louis Masreliez and historical furniture by Gottlieb Iwersson and Georg Haupt
Visiting tips
Take time while visiting Gustav Adolfs Torg to admire the palace's western facade, which was intentionally designed as a copy of the original opera building across the square.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Arvfurstens palats is easy to reach on Stockholm’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Stockholm Palace and Tre Kronor Castle. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Stockholm travel guide.
See the full Stockholm travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.