Europe · Sweden · Småland
Kalmar Castle
The story
History of Kalmar Castle
A defensive tower that became a Renaissance palace under the Vasa kings, guarding the Baltic against the Danes.
Sweden · Småland · Renaissance
- Built
- from the 12th century
- Era
- Renaissance
- Style
- Renaissance
- Country
- Sweden
- Region
- Småland
- UNESCO
- —
- Coordinates
- 56.664, 16.356
In depth
The fuller history
During the twelfth century a round defensive tower was built on Kalmarsund and a harbour constructed. At the end of the thirteenth century King Magnus Ladulås had a new fortress built with a curtain wall, round corner towers and two square gatehouses surrounding the original tower. Located near the site of Kalmar's medieval harbor, it has played a crucial part in Swedish history since its initial construction as a fortified tower in the 12th century.
In 1856, architect Fredrik Wilhelm Scholander (1816–1881) initiated reconstruction/restoration work at Kalmar Castle. His pupil Helgo Zettervall continued restoring Kalmar Castle in the 1880s. Architect Carl Möller drew up the plans and other documents. The work began in 1885 and by 1891 the castle had gained the silhouette it bears today. In 1919 Professor Martin Olsson was charged with the continuing restoration of earthworks, the moat, the bridge and the drawbridge. Work continued until 1941, when the castle was once more surrounded by water.
Key dates
- 1180Its origins date to the 12th century, with a defensive tower constructed on the site around 1180.
- 1587Following the completion of the castle's exterior, an interior renovation commenced in 1587, two years after Johan III's visit to the castle.
- 1599The castle was therefore besieged by the Duke's forces in March 1599, and was compelled to surrender on 12 May.
- 1856In 1856, architect Fredrik Wilhelm Scholander (1816–1881) initiated reconstruction/restoration work at Kalmar Castle.
- 1885The work began in 1885 and by 1891 the castle had gained the silhouette it bears today.
- 1919In 1919 Professor Martin Olsson was charged with the continuing restoration of earthworks, the moat, the bridge and the drawbridge.
Historical summary drawn from Wikipedia. Read the full article.
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