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A Short History of KTH Campus and a Glimpse into Campus Today

Hi everyone! I hope you all have had a great week, I know I did, as I celebrated the end of my examination period (my last exam ever in my master’s career!!!!) In this post I’ll introduce you to the beautiful campus we call home here at KTH.

When you step onto the KTH Campus, you’re not just entering an institution of higher learning; you’re stepping into a piece of Stockholm’s history. Founded in 1827, the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH) is Sweden’s oldest and most prestigious technical university. The KTH Campus, which was built between 1914 and 1917 within the district of Djurgården, represents a timeless blend of tradition and innovation.

back of KTH library and KTH architecture building
Back of the KTH library and architecture building on main campus!

The Historical Foundation of Today’s Campus

The KTH Campus, nestled just north of Valhallavägen, has a rich history dating back to its foundation stone laid in 1914. It was three years later, in 1917, that the main building, the KTH courtyard and a grand entrance designed by renowned architect Erik Lallerstedt, was completed. The campus was inaugurated on October 19, 1917, with presence of President Carl Jacob Magnell and King Gustav V.

To get a true sense of the history that surrounds KTH Campus, one only needs to look at old black and white photos which you can check out here. These archival snapshots capture the essence of the campus during its early days, providing a glimpse into a time when the institution was in its infancy, yet already promising greatness.

You can read more about KTH campus’ history here.

KTH Campus Today:

Today, KTH Campus has expanded to match the size of Stockholm’s old town, representing the continuous growth and importance of the university. Beyond KTH, the campus accommodates the Opera School, University of Dance and Circus (DOCH), and the National Defence College. Alongside these educational institutions, a variety of organizations, institutions, and companies find their home on the campus. Remarkably, more than 20,000 individuals work and study within these historic grounds.

One of the standout features of KTH Campus is the Borggården, a charming courtyard that could easily belong to a postcard. This picturesque area offers students a tranquil escape from their hectic academic lives. The Borregården serves as a meeting place, a space to sit in the sun, and a hub for conversations and friendship. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely walk or savoring a packed lunch, this courtyard offers a peaceful haven in the midst of the bustling campus.

The KTH Courtyard
KTH Borggården aerial view

In the daily life of a KTH Campus student, a considerable amount of time is spent within classrooms. KTH takes pride in its contemporary and well-designed classrooms. I spend most of my time in classrooms which are often in the buildings U, E, Q, and V, which feature well-lit and spacious settings conducive to effective learning. Equipped with the latest technology, these classrooms offer a seamless blend of tradition and innovation.

desks and chairs in a classroom with large windows and lots of light
One of my classrooms in the U building!

KTH Campus embodies Sweden’s dedication to excellence in education and innovation. As it continues to develop and broaden its horizons, it remains deeply connected to its rich past, preserving its legacy while embracing the future. For students, faculty, and visitors, KTH Campus provides not just an education but an experience that entwines historical significance with the contemporary pursuit of knowledge and progress.

Speaking of campus, have you checked out Sai’s latest post on Tentapub, where the Nymble building turns into one of my favourite nightlife campus events! If not, click the link and check it out! See you all next week 🙂