If he were alive, Birger Jarl would undoubtedly be honored to see that the small town he built in 1252 has grown into the largest city in Sweden. Stockholm established itself as the capital of Sweden in 1634, shortly after Sweden was liberated from Danish rule in 1523. Today, with its exquisite architecture, abundant open water, and numerous parks, it is easy to see why it is called “The Venice of the North.” It is also known as “The World’s Smallest Big City.” Have fun getting to know the heart of historic, beautiful Stockholm.