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Gripsholm Castle began life in 1537 under the guidance of Henrik von Kollen as part of a defence network ordered by the King of Sweden, Gustav Vasa
Gripsholm Castle was torn down and rebuilt in 1537 under the guidance of Henrik von Kollen as part of a defence network ordered by the King of Sweden, Gustav Vasa. It was also proposed at the time that Gripsholm would also become Gustav’s home. During the 1600’s, Gripsholm was used as a dower by Queens Maria Eleonora (widow of Gustav II) and Hedvig Eleonora (widow of Karl X). Hedvig Eleonora also stamped her influence on the castle with the building of the Queen’s Wing. The reign of Gustav III in the late 18th century marked a new period of brilliance in Gripsholm Castle's history. It was during this period that the theatre was fitted out in one of the round Renaissance towers of the Castle becoming one of the best-preserved 18th century theatres in Europe. Also during this period in the castles history, the Round Drawing Room was built. Here the visitor is able to marvel at the several portraits of Gustav III and his royal contemporaries. The 19th century saw an upsurge in national pride and Gripsholm Castle came to be regarded as a national treasure. Furniture and art of historic importance were moved from various royal residences to Gripsholm to strengthen its national character. Today, Gripsholm is a monument to Swedish interior design dating from the 16th to the late 19th century, housing a unique collection of furniture and arts spanning 4 centuries.
Tourist InformationOpening Hours: 15.5-15.9 daily 10-16 16.9-14.5 Sa, Su, public holiday 12-15 Closed 1.1, 24-25.12, 31.12 Admission Prices: Adult SEK 60 Children SEK 30 Free admission with the Stockholm Card
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Gripsholm Castle, Sweden, is situated in Sodermanland, on the shores of Lake Malaren and was named after Bo Jonsson Grip, by whom the first Castle was built in the second half of the 14th century. Towards the end of the Middle Ages, the Castle was donated to a Cartesian Monastery founded in Pacis Mariae.
