Lilla Nygatan, Stockholm

A small street on Gamla Stan that spans from the Munkbron square to Kornhamnstorg is Lilla Nygatan. The street was the result of city planning following a huge fire in 1625, which nearly destroyed the entire metropolis. During the 1990s, archeological digs in the area unearthed many medieval artifacts and evidence of the original town which existed on the ridge. When the archeologists examined Lilla Nygatan, they found confirmation of the old city wall that protected the area during the 14th century. Much of the town was destroyed during the age of Vasa, following the Protestant Reformantion. Several historical buildings sit on Lilla Nygatan. The Postmuseum is an exhibition which chronicles the postal and philatelic history. The façade of the building displays four green Ekeberg marble columns with Doric capitals. Ekeberg marble is a light colored marble which is quarried in Estonia. Regal groups of sphinx sit upon the columns and look out at onlookers. Visitors to the city will want to visit the museum and then spend the rest of the day exploring the local history. Those who are interested in architecture will find the street fascinating, as architectural styles that can be found include Baroque, Renaissance and Rococo. There are many shops, taverns and cafes dotting the streets and beckoning for visitors.