Gripsholm Castle
Gripsholm Castle rises in brick Renaissance splendor on the shores of Lake Mälaren at Mariefred, Sweden, roughly 60 km west of Stockholm. King Gustav I Vasa began construction in 1537, completing the four-towered fortress by 1545.
Over the centuries it served as royal residence and prison — King Eric XIV was held captive here from 1571 to 1573. Gustav III commissioned a court theatre in 1781–82, still largely intact. Today it is open to the public and houses Sweden's National Portrait Gallery, one of the oldest portrait collections in the world, with more than 5,000 artworks.
Visitor information
- Location
- Mariefred
- Country
- Sweden
- Tier
- B (Great castles)
- Coordinates
- 59.2561, 17.2192
- Official site
- https://www.royalpalaces.se/english/royal-palaces-and-sites/gripsholm-castle.html
Frequently asked questions
- Where is Gripsholm Castle?
- Gripsholm Castle is in Mariefred, Sweden (approximately 59.2561, 17.2192).
- Can you visit Gripsholm Castle?
- Yes — Gripsholm Castle is open to visitors; see the official site at https://www.royalpalaces.se/english/royal-palaces-and-sites/gripsholm-castle.html for hours and tickets.
- What tier is Gripsholm Castle on the Castle Atlas?
- Gripsholm Castle is rated B tier on the Castle Atlas — Great castles.
- What can you see at Gripsholm Castle?
- Gripsholm Castle rises in brick Renaissance splendor on the shores of Lake Mälaren at Mariefred, Sweden, roughly 60 km west of Stockholm. King Gustav I Vasa began construction in 1537, completing the four-towered fortress by 1545.