Johannesgränd (Johannes Alley), Stockholm

Johannes Alley (Johannesgränd) is a historic alley situated in Gamla Stan, the old town of Stockholm. The name ''Johannesgränd'' is derived from the Church of the Order of Saint John, which once stood near the eastern part of the alley. This church, associated with the knightly order that had been present in Stockholm since the 1330s, was first mentioned in 1499. The church was formally inaugurated in 1514 by a bishop from Strängnäs. However, following the Protestant Reformation, the church was demolished shortly after 1530, and the site was claimed by the crown.

In the 1960s, archaeological excavations uncovered remnants of the church, including a portal, a section of the foundation, and a limestone column. These digs also revealed a small graveyard east of the church, where the remains of coffins and bones were found. Historical accounts suggest that King Gustav Vasa disturbed this graveyard in search of materials for saltpeter production, a deed criticized in contemporary chronicles.

Johannes Alley is not only for its religious and historical connections but also for the notable buildings that border it. At its intersection with the waterfront stands the Hebbeska House, built in the 1630s. This house was originally owned by Simon Bernhard Hebbe, a prominent merchant and director of the Swedish East India Company. The Hebbe family occupied the house for over a century before it was acquired by the government.

On the opposite side of the alley is the Nordström and Thulin House, which dates back to the 1790s. This building was later purchased by Carl Gustaf Thulin, who used it as an office for his shipping business. Today, the Nordström and Thulin House continues to serve as office space.