Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
▲▲Kalmar Castle (Kalmar Slott)
This moated castle is one of Europe's great medieval experiences. The im-
posing exterior, anchored by stout watchtowers and cuddled by a lush park,
houses a fine Renaissance palace interior. Built in the 12th century, the
castle was enlarged and further fortified by the great King Gustav Vasa (r.
1523-1560) and lived in by two of his sons, Erik XIV and Johan III. In the
1570s, Johan III redecorated the castle in the trendy Renaissance style, giving
it its present shape. Kalmar Castle remained a royal hub until 1658, when the
Swedishfrontiershiftedsouthandthecastlelostitsstrategicimportance.Kal-
mar Castle was neglected, then used as a prison, distillery, and granary. Fin-
ally, in the mid-19th century, a newfound respect for history led to the castle's
renovation.
