Stockholm Metro: The World’s Longest Underground Art Gallery

Text by MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Network　

Since the Stockholm Metro was excavated from underground bedrock, it features many unique rock formations. The Swedes invited artists to create captivating works on these rocks, resulting in an 110-kilometer-long gallery, which locals also call “the world’s longest artwork.” Nearly all stations are decorated with diverse artistic creations, especially those along the Blue Line. From the first artistically transformed station—Central Station T-Centralen—to the terminal Hjulsta, each stop surprises passengers with unexpected decorations.

These metro artworks began in 1950, with nearly 140 artists involved in the project. Stockholm has 100 metro stations, and over 90% of them feature different forms of modern art. For example, at Central Station, walking toward Platform 6 feels like stepping from a regular metro station into a fairy-tale forest. Heading further to Kungsträdgården Station, you’ll find Spanish-style mosaic collages, and on the way to Hjulsta, Rissne Station displays a full-wall world map marked with Swedish captions of major historical events.

Stockholm’s metro network is extensive, allowing easy access to nearly all tourist attractions. If you’re not in a rush, consider stopping at a few extra stations along the way to experience Stockholm’s creative subway art. Free guided tours are available weekly, with English tours offered in summer. Each tour covers 4 to 5 stations. For details, visit the official website: sl.se/en/Visitor/Art-guide/Art-Walks.