Turning Torso
Rising 190 metres above the Western Harbour, Turning Torso is the tallest building in Scandinavia and the unmistakable symbol of modern Malmö. Designed by the world-renowned Spanish architect and engineer Santiago Calatrava, the twisting skyscraper has become one of Sweden's most recognised landmarks.
Completed in 2005, the building consists of nine interconnected cubes that rotate a total of 90 degrees from base to top, creating its distinctive spiral shape. The design was inspired by Calatrava's sculpture Twisting Torso, which represents the movement of a turning human body.
Architecture
Standing 190 metres tall with 54 floors, Turning Torso was the first twisting skyscraper in the world and remains one of Europe's most celebrated examples of contemporary architecture. Its unique design has earned numerous international awards and made it an icon of Malmö's transformation from an industrial city into a modern centre of innovation and sustainability.
Can You Go Inside?
Turning Torso is primarily a residential building with offices and conference facilities. It is not generally open to the public, although guided visits have occasionally been arranged during special events.
Fortunately, the building is just as impressive from the outside and can be admired from several excellent viewpoints around the Western Harbour.
Best Photo Locations
Some of the best places to photograph Turning Torso include:
- Ribersborg Beach (Ribban)
- Daniaparken
- Sundspromenaden
- Scaniaparken
- The waterfront in Västra Hamnen
Sunset is often considered the best time to visit, when the glass façade reflects the warm evening light over the Öresund.
A Symbol of a New Malmö
Turning Torso stands in Västra Hamnen, a district that was once home to the Kockums shipyards. Today, the former industrial area has been transformed into one of Europe's leading examples of sustainable urban development, featuring modern housing, waterfront promenades, parks, restaurants and bathing areas.
Lilla Varvsgatan 14, Malmö
Read more about the Western Harbour »
Did You Know?
- ✔ Tallest building in Scandinavia.
- ✔ Height: 190 metres (623 ft).
- ✔ 54 floors.
- ✔ Designed by Santiago Calatrava.
- ✔ Completed in 2005.
- ✔ Inspired by the sculpture Twisting Torso.