The statue of King Gustav III is located near the Royal Palace in Stockholm. The Swedish government commissioned it in 1816 in memory of King Gustav III, who ruled Sweden from 1771 until his death in 1792. Gustav III was born in Stockholm in 1746 and became King of Sweden in 1771. He was the eldest son of King Adolf Friedrich and Queen Louise Ulrika. Gustav III is known for his military successes during the Russo-Swedish War (1788-1790) and his efforts to reform the Swedish government. He was a patron of the arts and culture and is credited with helping to revive Swedish theater and opera. He was also a patron of the sciences and supported several expeditions to explore the Arctic. He was an advocate for the rights of the common people and sought to improve their living conditions. He was an Enlightenment monarch who believed in the power of reason and education to change society. He was assassinated on March 16, 1792 by a group of conspirators from noble Swedish families and his death marked the end of an era in Swedish history. Gustav is remembered for his contributions to the arts and culture, and for his efforts to modernize the Swedish polity.

The statue was created by the French sculptor Jean-Baptiste d'Hue and cast in bronze. It is considered one of the most important works of art from the early 19th century in Sweden. The statue is notable for its realistic depiction of the king and attention to detail. King Gustav III is depicted as a general and with a sword, a symbol of his military achievements. The statue was originally located opposite the Royal Palace, but was moved to its current location in 1853. The statue is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Stockholm and is also considered a symbol of the city.

From the statue of King Gustav III, Sergels torg and Slab rise deep into Gamla Stan - there is a big difference between these two names of the square. The first name mentions the most prolific architect of the Swedish capital. And the second speaks of the political activity of the Swedes. Usually there are strikes and demonstrations on this court. If political and social pickets are meant to attract the attention of governments, then sports fans fill the square to celebrate the victories of their sports idols. Most often it is the national hockey team "Three Crowns".

This place has the same and not very flattering reputation. In one of the main Swedish newspapers, you can sometimes read this: “People sell drugs and inject heroin in front of everyone at the Sergels market in Stockholm. The police and politicians keep promising to take action, but absolutely nothing is happening.” The drug trade around this square has been compared to coffee shops in Holland. However, there is a big difference: it is not legal here.

But ask any Stockholmer over 35 what Sergels torg reminds them of, and the answer is the same. They say Mary. Maria was an old woman. Every day, in any weather, she played the organol here, sang Christian songs and distributed homemade sandwiches to the poor. Until she passed away at the age of 84.