Home of the Nobel Prize

The Nobel Prize is the world’s most prestigious award, inspiring scientists, researchers, writers, and peace advocates to advance knowledge and improve society.

How Alfred Nobel's Vision Became the World's Most Prestigious Prize

The Nobel Prize was established by Swedish inventor and entrepreneur Alfred Nobel, who held 355 patents, including one for dynamite. In his 1895 will, Nobel dedicated most of his fortune to prizes honoring those whose work provides the “greatest benefit to humankind.” Today, the Nobel Prize recognizes groundbreaking achievements that advance science, literature, peace, and economic understanding. The prizes are awarded in six categories: Physics, Chemistry, Physiology or Medicine, Literature, Peace, and the Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel, established by Sweden’s central bank in 1968. Since the first awards in 1901, Nobel laureates have included pioneers such as Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen, who discovered X-rays, and Marie Curie, the first woman to receive a Nobel Prize.

Curious to learn more?

Explore the official Nobel Prize website to discover the stories behind the laureates, watch Nobel lectures and award ceremonies, explore historic photographs and archives, and even browse menus from Nobel Prize banquets through the years.

Nobel Price medal

A Celebration of Achievement

Each year on December 10, the anniversary of Alfred Nobel’s death, laureates receive their medals and diplomas in Stockholm, followed by the renowned Nobel Banquet at Stockholm City Hall, one of Sweden’s most celebrated traditions. The Nobel Peace Prize is awarded separately in Oslo, Norway.

Since 1901, the Nobel Prizes and the Prize in Economic Sciences have been awarded 633 times to 1,026 laureates and organizations, representing some of humanity’s most influential discoveries and achievements. More than 400 Americans have received Nobel Prizes, while Sweden is home to 34 Nobel laureates.

Nobel Prize Outreach/photo: Clément Morin/imagebank.sweden.se