One of Sweden's oldest towns, Nyköping is home to some 26k people. While it existed before that, it was according to Norstedt's Stora Focus recognized as a town in 1234. Later on, in 1317, it became the scene of Nyköpings gästabud (see Birger) and the town was eventually invaded by the russians in 1719. It is no longer nearly as significant as it was by then, having developed to one of Sweden's most important coastal towns, but many of the old buildings still stand. The reasonable distance -- 70ish miles -- to Stockholm, the capital, makes commuting fairly common and perhaps worthwhile to some extent, as many prefer the quiet atmosphere of a town like Nyköping but are unable to find stimulating employment there.