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Castle · Uppsala, Uppsala
Uppsala slott
The pink castle of Uppsala, begun by Gustavo Vasa in 1549, on the hilltop above the city: cannons aimed at the cathedral, the bell Gunilla and the city's art museum.
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 Uppsala slott
The Uppsala slott began to be built in 1549 by order of King Gustavo Vasa, on top of a hill with views over the whole city. It is said the cannons were pointed at the cathedral on purpose, to remind the archbishop who ruled the kingdom after the Reformation. The castle was enlarged by the king's sons, suffered a large fire in 1702 that destroyed much of the city, and was rebuilt in the 18th century in the pink colour it has today.
It was the scene of key moments in Swedish history. In the throne hall, Queen Christina abdicated in 1654, and assemblies and coronations took place there.
Today the building houses the residence of the county governor, the Uppsala konstmuseum (the city's art museum), and rooms that can be visited at certain times with guided tours. Outside, the bell Gunillaklockan, in a wooden tower, rings at 6:00 and at 21:00, and the gardens and ramparts are open, with views of the cathedral and the surrounding plain.
At the foot of the hill is the university's Jardim Botânico, with its baroque orangery and tropical greenhouses.
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
From 45 minutes to 1h30, depending on what is open.
Best time
From May to September, when guided tours of the historic rooms usually run. The hill and the gardens can be visited year-round; at the end of the afternoon the view over the city is lovely. Check what is open before you go.
How to get there
It's at the top of the hill south of the cathedral, a 15-minute walk from the station, with a short climb. From Gustavianum it's a 5-minute walk.
Tip
Even if the rooms are closed, climb the hill for the view. Descend on the south side to the Jardim Botânico and the greenhouses.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Uppsala slott
Can you enter Uppsala Castle?
Part of the building is the official residence of the governor, but the city's art museum operates there and there are guided tours of the historic rooms at certain times. Check before you go.
Why is the castle pink?
The colour comes from the 18th-century reconstruction after the fire of 1702, and it was kept in subsequent renovations.
What is the Gunilla bell?
A 16th-century bell in a wooden tower beside the castle, which rings at 6:00 and 21:00 every day.