What does the name “Skeppsholmen” mean?
The name came into use in the 17th century when the naval fleet, including shipyards and workshops, was moved here from Blasieholmen. Previously, the island was called Vangsön (or Vagnsholmen), after the word “vång” meaning pasture, and was used as pasture for livestock in the Middle Ages.
At the end of the 16th century, the island became a royal recreation area and was called Lustholmen, when Gustav Vasa laid out gardens and Erik XIV organized parties here. When the navy moved here around 1634-1640, the island regained its new role – as a shipyard – and the name Skeppsholmen came into effect.
Historical eras
- Pasture and pleasure ground (1400-1500s)
Vangsön was originally a grassy islet for livestock. In the 16th century, the island became a place of pleasure with gardens and party places for the royals. - Naval base and shipyard (17th century to 1969)
Under Queen Kristina, the naval shipyard was moved here, partly to remove the shipbuilding activities from the view of the Palace. Skeppsholmen became Stockholm’s naval base for over 300 years, until the fleet finally moved to Muskö in 1969. - Open society under military rule
Despite the military presence, parts of the island became open to the public from 1749 – with shops, cafés, a church and dancing at the Exercise House. The island became its own naval mini-city. - Museum and cultural arena (1969-present)
When the military moved out, the buildings began to be used for civilian purposes. Today, Skeppsholmen houses several of Stockholm’s vibrant cultural institutions: Moderna Museet, Östasiatiska museet and Eric Ericsonhallen, as well as a number of other meeting and event venues that you can book through us.
In short: From Vangsön – Lustholmen – Skeppsholmen
- Vangsön: pasture – 15th century
- Lustholmen: royal pleasure and party place – 16th century
- Skeppsholmen: naval shipyard and maritime base – from the 17th century
We are writing new history together with you
Today, we at Skeppsholmsgruppen are proud to manage this unique place and make it accessible to everyone. Through our event venues, people have the opportunity to experience Skeppsholmen’s magical environment up close and create their own memorable moments in the heart of Stockholm.
We are happy to be part of Skeppsholmen’s living history and to be able to offer unique venues for everything from concerts and conferences to weddings and creative workshops.
Welcome to experience Skeppsholmen – a place where Stockholm’s maritime heritage meets today’s creativity and future visions. Get in touch and we will help you realize your visions!