KTH Royal Institute of Technology

"During the post-World War II era, as countries raced to develop nuclear weapons, Sweden made a controversial decision to construct its first nuclear reactor, known as Reaktor 1 (R1). Located 25 meters beneath the KTH Royal Institute of Technology and within a kilometer of approximately 40,000 residents, the reactor was deemed a necessary risk for advancing scientific research in the context of the Cold War. Scientists aimed to harness neutron reactions for various studies, leading to the reactor's initiation on July 13, 1954, marking Sweden's first nuclear reaction. R1 served as the foundation for much of Sweden’s nuclear research until the 1970s, when growing concerns about its proximity to the capital prompted its closure. In response to public apprehension, the reactor was taken offline, and its operations ceased. Today, the reactor hall has been transformed into a public space, opening its doors to visitors through the KTH Museum of Science and Technology. Since April 2007, the reactor hall has gained popularity as an unconventional venue for modern art exhibitions and dance performances, bridging the gap between historical scientific endeavors and contemporary cultural expressions."

"Here you'll find Sweden's first nuclear reactor. If you're interested in science then make sure to stop by. It hasn't been operational since 1970 but is still a point of research and experimentation."