The old town comprises Stadsholmenl, the original site of Stockholm, Riddarholmen with its palaces and public buildings, Helgeandsholmen where the parliament is situated, and Strömsborg (uninhabitated as late as the 18C). A pedestrian paradise, Gamla Stan’s streets are lined by characterful old houses standing cheek by jowl. Its three main thoroughfares Stora Nygatan, Österlånggatan and Västerlånggatan have picturesque shops, cafés and restaurants.