The medieval 'kernel' of Stockholm -- the Old Town -- also called The City Between Bridges, is on a rather small island controlling the entrance to lake Mälaren. The modern Stockholm is built on the shores north and south of the Old Town, as the city has sprawled since the 1200s. This street, Storkyrkobrinken, is one of the oldest, and it leads to the Luteran cathedral and the Royal Palace, which are right behind us as we look down the sloping street. Many of the beautiful old buildings are ochre, orange, earth red, and other colours, partially why I (local patriot!) regard Stockholm as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.