One of Gothenburg’s oldest buildings is now a museum and the perfect place to shop for souvenirs, such as pottery and leather goods, made by local artisans.
Kronhuset (Crown House) is one of Gothenburg’s oldest surviving buildings and is today a museum, concert hall and craft centre dedicated to selling the work of local artisans. Tour the centuries-old structure and visit the surrounding outbuildings, which are filled with pottery, furniture and clock shops. Sample chocolates and watch a glassblower create his wares, then take some jewellery home for yourself.
The main building is one of the best examples of 17th century architecture in Gothenburg. Admire details like cobblestones and low ceilings that have been untouched since the 1600s. The Kronhuset’s Dutch-style red-brick walls and green-copper roof set it apart from many buildings in Gothenburg. Step inside to see the arched ceilings crisscrossed with wooden beams. The building has served as a storage depot, a city hall, an inauguration place for kings and more recently as a museum and as the headquarters for the Gothenburg Wind Orchestra.
After touring Kronhuset, explore the lower Kronhusbodarna (outbuildings). These were built in the 18th century after a fire destroyed the original outbuildings once used for storing artillery, food and textiles. Browse the many shops now housed here, including a glass-blowing workshop, textile shop and pottery shed. The traditional clockmaker offers a selection of antique gadgets and will fix or restore your timepieces. Shop for bags, wallets and gloves among the wide selection at the leather store.
The artisan stores are all joined by a pleasant cobblestone courtyard called the Kronhuskvarteret. A popular café on the Kronhuskvarteret offers hot drinks and fresh baked goods daily. During winter, warm your hands on a mug of glögg, a traditional Swedish Christmas drink.
Kronhuset is a short walk northwest of the central Gustav Adolf Square. It is best to reach the museum and craft centre on foot or by tram, since parking in the vicinity is limited. The Kronhuset is open daily, but shop hours can vary. Check the official Kronhuset website before your visit. The centre is free to enter.
