The square is named after Birger Jarl, who founded Stockholm in 1252. His statue stands in the middle of the square.
Facing south: The Riddarholmskyrkan(Riddarholmen Church) from the 1280ies was originally built as a Greyfriar Monastery but serves today as Sweden's Pantheon, burial church for Swedish Kings (free admission with the Stockholm à la Carte card.)
Facing north: The Stenbock Palace is the best preserved building on this island. It was build in 1640 as a private residence and is today holding the offices of the Supreme Court.
The Wrangel Palace, today the Svea Appelate Court, was once the largest private palace in Stockholm. The oldest part of this palace dates from 1530, the main building was reconstructed in the late 17th century. After the Royal Palace burned down in 1697, the Royal family residenced here for 56 years.
Facing west: The Mälaren lake, Sweden's third largest - streching 200 kilometers west from this point.
Facing east: The Old Town island.
