Gripsholm Castle is a popular excursion destination that welcomes visitors from near and far. The majestic Vasa fortress is situated on a small islet in Lake Mälaren, just outside the idyllic town center of Mariefred.
Surrounding the castle is a charming park that is well worth a visit in its own right. In the castle garden, all the flowers used for decoration inside the castle are grown. Apples are also cultivated here and used to produce the King’s ow
The name Gripsholm comes from Bo Jonsson Grip who established the first castle at the site, already in the 14th century. The castle would later be donated, by Sten Sture, to the Carthusian Order. They built the Pax Mariae monastery near the castle. However, the monastery was short-lived. It was the first monastery to be closed by Gustav Vasa during the Reformation. Gustav Vasa then built Gripsholm Castle both as a fortress and as a residence for himself.
Grand Halls and the World’s Oldest National Portrait Gallery
Gripsholm Castle is home to the Swedish State Portrait Collection, which includes more than 5,000 paintings. It is the world’s oldest national portrait gallery—a true treasure trove for anyone interested in art and history. The first thing visitors encounter upon entering Gripsholm is a portrait of the current royal family, painted by John-Erik Franzén in 1984–1985. New portraits are added to the collection every year, and it’s not just royalty on display—well-known Swedish personalities are featured as well.
Among the oldest paintings in the castle is the so-called Contemporary Gallery in the Hall of State. This impressive collection features full-length portraits of Gustav Vasa and his contemporary rulers. The grand hall, with its painted ceiling, offers a vivid impression of the castle’s original 16th-century atmosphere.
Another famous feature of the castle is Gustav III’s exclusive court theatre, located in one of the round Renaissance towers. It is one of the best-preserved 18th-century theatres in Europe. In addition to the grand halls used for official events, the castle also showcases more private chambers from various centuries.
When the national romantic movement swept across Sweden in the 19th century, Gripsholm Castle came to be seen as a national treasure. Furniture and artworks were brought here from other royal estates. Today, Gripsholm is one of the most visited royal castles in Sweden—a true gem for those wanting to experience Swedish history up close.
Gripsholm Castle for Kids
A visit to Gripsholm Castle truly suits all ages. For children, it’s like stepping into a fairytale castle. Imagination comes alive with towering turrets, deep dungeons, armories, and cannons.
Family Tour
Join a guided tour of the castle for an experience that offers so much more. The family tour is designed for children aged 6 to 10 but is just as entertaining for the accompanying adults.
Leo the Lion
The stuffed lion Leo has become something of a viral celebrity. Nowadays, when most of us have seen photos of real lions, it’s easy to laugh at this 18th-century curiosity. With close-set eyes and human-like teeth, Leo looks more like a teddy bear than a fearsome predator.
With a special picture map, available at the ticket desk, kids can go on Leo the Lion’s fashion safari. The map features fun details to search for in the castle’s grand rooms. Once the safari is completed, a small reward awaits at the front desk.
Royal Prisoners
It’s not only in fairytales that princes and princesses are locked away in dungeons. Gripsholm Castle was used as a prison many times throughout history, and one of its towers is even called the Prison Tower. Two of King Gustav Vasa’s sons, Johan III and Erik XIV, were among the high-profile prisoners held at Gripsholm.
According to history, the royals were still treated fairly well—staying in rooms with windows and artwork on the walls. In the 18th century, the castle was used as a regional prison, and thieves were locked in the vaulted cellars. Life was likely far less comfortable for them than for the kings, but at least they were fed, and the temperature in the cellars never dropped below 8°C (46°F).
PAX Walk
If your children have read the popular PAX book series, don’t miss the chance to take the PAX Walk and explore all the locations in Mariefred where the stories take place. The series is named after the Pax Mariae Monastery, which Gustav Vasa seized for the benefit of Gripsholm Castle.
There’s a printable map available as well as an audio tour you can download to your phone.
