Gripsholm Castle

Gripsholm Castle is a 16th-century castle in Mariefred, Södermanland County, Sweden, historically used as a royal residence and defensive stronghold. It is a well-known historic site on the shores of Lake Mälaren.

The castle complex includes the central keep, curtain walls and a water-filled moat, with interior rooms open to the public as museum displays. A nationally significant portrait collection is exhibited in parts of the castle, and the building is a frequent destination for cultural tourism and school visits.

Gripsholm was constructed and developed in the 16th century under the Swedish Vasa kings and has served variously as a royal residence, prison and museum across the centuries. It has been restored and adapted for public access while preserving its historic fabric.

The castle stands in the small town of Mariefred on the northern shore of Lake Mälaren, roughly 60 kilometres west of central Stockholm and reachable by road or seasonal boat services.

• Proximity to Stockholm: Located on the shores of Lake Mälaren in Mariefred, the castle is about 60 kilometres west of Stockholm and is often visited as a day trip from the capital.

What to See #

• Keep and moat: The central keep and island-like moat structure define the main defensive core of the castle and house exhibition rooms and historic interiors.
• Portrait collection: The castle is home to the Swedish National Portrait Collection, with rooms displaying historic portraits from Swedish history.