HISTORY

Around 1900, Birger Jarlsgatan was a major, lively thoroughfare crowded with people and horse carriages. Many movements were relatively new, and one of them, the YMCA (Young Men's Christian Association) built its own premises at Snickarbacken and Birger Jarlsgatan between 1895 and 1910. The original intention was for the complex to function as accommodation and as a meeting place for young men in central Stockholm. The atmosphere of warm hospitality remains to this day, but the functions of the past changed drastically in the next 100 years. Crystal Plaza Hotel now offers an international ambience to all travellers.

The building at Birger Jarlsgatan was designed by architect C.A. Danielsson-Bååk in late Art Nouveau style. When it was being constructed, the building was not viewed as being typically Swedish or Stockholmian, but faithful to the YMCA's British-American roots. The lobby and bar, on the other hand, feature reliefs by the sculptress Alice M. Nordin, and inspired by Greek and Christian mythology.