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Castle · Kalmar, Kalmar
Kalmar slott
Renaissance castle surrounded by water and ramparts on the shore of the Kalmarsund, where the Union of Kalmar was signed in 1397 and which the Vasa kings turned into a palace in the 16th century.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Kalmar slott
Kalmar slott began as a defensive tower in the 12th century on the coast of the Kalmarsund and grew as a border fortress with Denmark. In 1397 it was there that Queen Margaret I crowned Eric of Pomerania as king of the three Nordic kingdoms, in what became known as the Union of Kalmar. In the 16th century, Kings Gustav Vasa and his sons, Eric XIV and John III, transformed the fortress into a Renaissance palace with green-roofed towers, decorated gates and painted halls.
Seen from the outside, the castle has thick walls, bastions and a water-filled moat in a park by the sea. Inside, the tour goes through Renaissance halls such as the Sala Dourada, with a carved wooden ceiling, the room of King Eric XIV with marquetry walls, the castle chapel and the dungeons. Exhibitions show life in the castle, the history of the women who lived there and the period when the building served as a prison and storehouse.
In summer there are guided tours, activities for children like fencing and period games, and events in the courtyard. The surrounding park, Kalmar stadspark, has gardens, ponds and views of the castle reflected in the water.
From the castle to the centre, in Kvarnholmen, it is a 10-minute walk across the bridge.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1½ to 2 hours.
Best time
From May to September, when the castle is usually open every day and there are guided tours in English. In winter it is open fewer days. Check opening times before you go.
How to get there
It is a 10-minute walk from Kalmar train station and the centre, across the park.
Tip
Take the guided tour to understand the Renaissance halls. Afterwards walk through the park and the beach next to the castle, with views of the Öland bridge.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Kalmar slott
What was the Kalmar Union?
The union of the kingdoms of Denmark, Norway and Sweden under a single sovereign, formalized in Kalmar in 1397 and which lasted, with interruptions, until 1523.
Is the castle of Kalmar good for children?
Yes. It has dungeons, towers, and, in summer, period activities for children.
Is the castle far from the city center?
No, it's a 10-minute walk from the train station and the cathedral.