Before King Sigismund's (1566–1632) arrival in Stockholm in 1593, a large number of lodgings and taverns across the city were urged to undertake improvements. To guide foreign guests, the taverns were requested to put signs in the streets displaying symbols "like is the manner abroad". By the early 17th century, however, the number of taverns and lodging houses had not kept pace with demand, so the mayor reintroduced an ordinance stipulating two inns in every block. Shortly thereafter the Benicke tavern together with five other taverns were given a charter, recording that the premises to be used exclusively for the purpose — "all wine, beer, and other foreign beverages