Swedish National Museum of Science and Technology

One of Christopher Polhem's machines for batch production of clock gears

Beam engine designed by Samuel Owen

1895 Fresnel lighthouse lens by AGA AB

1891 internal combustion engine

Part of a 1/10 scale model of a large paper-making machine of 1912

Tekniska Museet - Swedish National Museum of Science and Technology

Located in Stockholm.

There are still some excellent exhibits to be found here, but it seems that the key audience is now very much at the younger end of the age spectrum, as the Museum website indicates.

A very large beam engine, constructed by Samuel Owen in 1839, is the centrepiece of the exhibits in the largest hall, but only in the literal sense, being located in the centre. In fact it would seem that its presence is no longer entirely welcome, judging by the extent of screening, dim lighting, and the apparent lack of descriptive information.

The breadth of technologies represented is good, but the depth is rather disappointing. However, although the number of historical artefacts on display might not match expectations of a national museum of science and technology, visitors with an interest in science, engineering and mining will certainly find items to satisfy them, The displays relating to the work and inventions of the Swedish polymath Christopher Polhem are particularly interesting.

Descriptive information adjacent to exhibits, in Swedish and English, is generally excellent.

There are some good 'hands on' exhibits for younger visitors.

Excellent cafe.

The museum can be reached by a pleasant walk from the city centre, along the southern shore of Östermalm. Alternatively, No. 69 buses run frequently from the city centre, stopping right outside the museum.

Note: The National Maritime Museum is immediately adjacent to the Tekniska Museet.

See Also

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