slussen

Slussen is a district in central Stockholm, Sweden, located at the southern end of Gamla stan where the Söderström river opens into Saltsjön and the waters of Lake Mälaren. The name Slussen refers to the sluice or lock that regulates water levels and navigation between the two bodies of water.

A longstanding centerpiece of the area is the Slussen lock, which historically allowed ships to pass between Mälaren and the Baltic Sea, while the surrounding complex functions as a major transportation interchange. The district also encompasses a prominent public square, pedestrian routes, and connections to nearby neighborhoods, making it a key gateway for residents and visitors.

Historically, a lock and associated facilities at Slussen date to the 17th century and the site developed as an important urban hub over time. In the mid-20th century a large-scale redevelopment produced the current interchange, including a notable bridge and a roundabout that integrated road, rail, and pedestrian traffic. The Katarinahissen funicular once linked Slussen with the higher ground on Södermalm, but its operation ended in the early 21st century.

From the 2010s, Slussen underwent a major redevelopment aimed at modernizing the transport hub while improving public space and preserving historical elements. The project introduced new pedestrian bridges, a redesigned waterfront, revised traffic patterns, and updated metro access. The work transformed the area into a more open, navigable part of Stockholm, with the refurbished facilities serving as a central node for urban mobility and city life.