One thousand years of Turkish-Swedish cooperation reflects fascinating aspects of the abundant contacts which mutual interests have fostered over decades and centuries. The Swedish Palace in Istanbul documents that relationship in both languages. Included are many beautiful illustrations and historic photos.
Swedish Vikings served in the Byzantine army and were among the first to meet the Turkic peoples coming into Anatolia around one thousand years ago.
Sweden and Turkey concluded commercial agreements in the 18th century and joined into military alliances that earned Sweden the honorary title of Turkey's oldest friend. In 1924 Sweden and the new Turkish Republic under Kemal Ataturk concluded a Treaty of Mutual Friendship and Cooperation.
Since 1757 Sweden has owned a Palace in Istanbul, albeit a modest one, for her diplomatic missions. This site continues to retain its historical significance as a focal point of Turkish-Swedish relations, particularly in view of Turkey's status as a candidate to the European Union.