Previously known as the Nobel Museum, the institution opened in 2001 marking the 100th anniversary since the inception of the Nobel Prize. The museum is an inspiring and interactive experience. Visitors have the opportunity to learn about Stockholm-born inventor, entrepreneur, scientist, and businessman Alfred Nobel. A true renaissance man in every sense of the phrase, Nobel left most of his wealth to the establishment of the prize in his will requesting that the award categories reflected his own varied interests.
Visitors to the museum can also experience multimedia exhibits that highlight renowned Nobel Laureates’ work, and a behind-the-scenes look at the selection process and annual banquet celebration. Most guided tours of Stockholm’s Old Town stop at the Nobel Prize Museum, but it’s worth going back to spend some time exploring more.
Situated in the Old Town of the Gamla Stan district, the museum is easily accessed by metro or bus. Take the red or green metro lines to Gamla Stan station, or buses 2, 3, 53, 55, 57, and 76 to the Slottsbacken eller Riddarhustorget stop.
The museum’s opening hours vary by season and day. June to August the museum is open daily from 9am to 8pm; September to May it’s open Tuesday through Thursday from 11am to 5pm, Friday from 11am to 8pm, Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 6pm; and closed on Monday. Last admission is 15-minutes before closing. And if you want to go to the museum for free consider planning a visit on Friday, 5 to 8pm, September through May; and December 10 (Nobel Prize Day).
On November 27, 1895 Alfred Nobel signed his last will and testament in Paris. In it he specifies that most of his fortune should be divided between five parts and used for prizes in physics, chemistry, physiology/medicine, literature, and peace. He also indicated that these illustrious prizes should go towards individuals whose work the previous year has “conferred the greatest benefit to humankind.”