Tidö Castle

Västerås, Sweden

Tidö is one of Sweden's best preserved Baroque palaces, built in the Dutch Renaissance style. The first building on the site was a medieval house built by the Gren family in the 15th century. In 1537, the Gren family sold the castle to the Queen consort, Margaret Leijonhufvud. In 1540, her husband, king Gustav Vasa, traded the castle to Ekolsund Castle and Tidö came to the Tott family. Today, minor ruins of the former house can be found next to the present building.

The present castle at Tidö was built by the Lord High Chancellor of Sweden Axel Oxenstierna in 1625–1645. The castle was built around a rectangular courtyard with the main building to the north and the three linked wings to the east, west and south. The main entrance is through a vault in the south wing. In 1889, the von Schinkel family bought Tidö and they still own it today. Today visitors may see the Toy Museum.

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Details

Founded: 1625-1645
Category: Castles and fortifications in Sweden
Historical period: Swedish Empire (Sweden)

Rating

4/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Eric A.L. Axner (3 years ago)
I was here a few times as a child, from which I have no memory. Visiting it now however, I can say for certainty that it is a fabulous castle, sterdy and rustic, much like its original owner Axel Oxenstierna, the creator (for good and bad) of the Swedish bureaucracy. I can definitely see myself visiting again.
Gail Adam (3 years ago)
The exterior of the castle is impressive but a little dilapidated- and was not open to visitors at the time of our visit. The motorcycle museum is open and is well worth a visit. It has so much more on the inside than would seem possible from the outside. Educational and inspiring. Very well planned exhibition includes racing bikes from track, velodrome and speedway (but no dragsters...). Also some cars on the upper floor, which also smells gorgeous.
Christopher Isene (4 years ago)
Classic swedish castle with heaps of history. Do your history before visiting to get most out of the visit.
Amir Wilf (6 years ago)
This house is beautiful with it's surroundings to just stroll around - be advised, going into the house itself is possible on specific dates and times which are listed in their website. Also, they only accept enrty fees with Swish
Nanni P. (6 years ago)
Quiet, calm and peaceful place not so much to see there.
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