storhertigdöme

A storhertigdöme, or grand duchy, is a sovereign state ruled by a grand duke or grand duchess. This form of government is a hereditary monarchy, ranking in precedence between a kingdom and a duchy. Historically, grand duchies were more common, often emerging from larger duchies that gained increased autonomy or through the elevation of a duke's status. The title of grand duke itself implies a level of sovereignty and prestige beyond that of a mere duke.

The concept of a grand duchy is primarily European in origin, with many such entities existing within the Holy Roman Empire. Following the dissolution of the empire, several grand duchies continued as independent states, particularly in the 19th century. Their size and political influence varied greatly, from powerful states to smaller principalities. Today, the number of grand duchies is very limited. The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg is the only remaining sovereign grand duchy in the world.

The distinction between a grand duchy and a kingdom often lies in historical development and tradition rather than a fundamental difference in governmental structure. A grand duke, while a monarch, traditionally held a rank below that of a king. However, in practice, the sovereignty of a grand duchy is equivalent to that of any other independent nation. The term "storhertigdöme" specifically refers to this type of sovereign state in Swedish.