You say “Nordic Museum” they say “Nordiska museet” — either way it is a great museum of Swedish cultural history from the Early Modern age to the current age, which, in theory, is even more modern.

The museum is in Stockholm, Sweden on an island known as Djurgården, or “The Royal Game Park,” which houses the popular Gröna Lund amusement park and other tourist and recreation areas.

The building was supposed to be three times its actual size and was built in the Danish Renaissance style rather than more traditional Swedish architecture. Scandal!

I’ve never been to Sweden, but it’s on my short list. I’m a sucker for Danish Renaissance style. Also amusement parks.

This post is part of the Uptake Monday Museums, Monuments and Memorials Series.

Photo: rieh via Flickr

Look, we’re on a Bulgarian kick!

The Shipka Pass is a big deal in Bulgaria, and the Shipka Memorial marks the spot in remembrance of the Russo-Turkish War and those that fought in it.

This post is part of the UpTake Monday Museums, Monuments and Memorials Series.

Photo: Klearchos Kapoutsis via Flickr

When you think of the Acropolis you are probably thinking of this one, the Acropolis of Athens (also, Citadel of Athens), but it’s not the only one. There are quite a few throughout Greece, but we’re not talking about them, this is all about THE Acropolis.

The Panathenaea festival is held here every four years, which is the only constant thing in the Acropolis’ history (which began around 3000 B.C.) — unless you count change as constant. The monument has been repaired and rededicated for centuries by and for various rulers. It’s been a temple, a fortress, and a church. These days it’s mainly used as a tourist attraction.

The Acropolis Museum, located on the property, houses the valuable artifacts from the Acropolis.

There is more history here than we can fit in one travel post, but know this — the Acropolis is a must-see in Athens, and its history is humbling.

Like you need an excuse to visit Greece!

Photo: Petros Giannakouris/AP courtesy of Life Books

The Louvre in Paris, France is full of beauty inside and out. It’s located an easy walk from the Eiffel Tower and numerous cafes, but you may want to save those for another day — the Louvre is a full day (at least) of art and history.

Inside you’ll find some of the best known art EVER. The Mona Lisa is there (please don’t bring up The Da Vinci Code), as is the armless beauty of Venus de Milo.

The building that houses the Louvre was built in the 12th century, and the museum has been there since 1793. It’s a work of art in its own right.

There are plenty of family activities, including guided tours, workshops and storytellers. There are even special deals and activities for visitors under the age of 30 (anyone older and you can’t trust them!).

The Louvre is a must-see on any trip to France. Take the kids, they’ll thank you.

This post is part of UpTake’s Monday Museums & Monuments Series.

Photo: http2007 via Flickr