The Royal Guards have been protecting the Royal Palace in Stockholm since 1523. Up to the mid 19th century, The Royal Guards comprised 100-200 men from guards units, who also maintained law and order in the city and provided fire-fighting services.
The Royal Guards and the Parade of Guards are amongst the most popular visitor attractions in Stockholm. An estimated 800,000+ spectators visit the outer palace courtyard each year to witness ceremonies like the Change of the Guard, state occasions and the normal changing of guards every other hour.
The Royal Guards also act as honorary guard at state ceremonies, ministry of defence official visits, visits by foreign military senior commanders and foreign naval visits.
Today around 50-60 people service in The Royal Guards, around 35 at Stockholm Royal Palace and 25 at Drottningholm.