Gamla Stan is one of Europe's largest and best-preserved medieval city centers and one of Stockholm's main attractions. It was here that Stockholm was founded in 1252. The entire Old Town and neighboring Riddarholmen is like a living and walking museum, filled with sights, attractions, restaurants, cafes, bars and shopping. Gamla Stan is also popular for craftsmen, curiosities and souvenirs. The narrow, vaulted cobbled alleys with houses in all the yellow hues have given the Old Town a unique character. Behind the visible facades, you can still find basement vaults and limestone paintings from the Middle Ages. And during snowy winter days, the district feels like a story book. In Gamla Stan there are several beautiful churches and museums.