Tullgarn Palace, Vagnhärad, Sweden

Tullgarn Palace is a royal summer palace built in the 1720s. The palace offers a mixture of rococo, Gustavian and Victorian styles. The interior design is regarded as one of Sweden's finest.

In 1719, the old Renaissance castle from the late 16th century was demolished. The newly appointed Privy Councillor Magnus Julius De la Gardie commissioned architect Joseph Gabriel Destain to design the present palace, built in the 1720s. The courtyard is open to the sea and took on its present appearance in the 1820s. It is modelled on the garden of Logården at the Royal Palace in Stockholm.

In 1772, Tullgarn was acquired by the crown and became a royal residence. Occupancy was granted to Duke Fredrik Adolf, youngest brother of King Gustav III. Between 1778 and 1793, Frederick Adolf resided there with his lover Sophie Hagman, and many episodes from this period are preserved as the Tullgarnsmminnena, The Tullgarn memories. Frederick Adolf modernized the palace in neo classical style, adding another storey to the wings, giving the palace a flat Italian-style roof. Fredrik Adolf's interiors are some of the finest examples of Gustavian style in Sweden. Among the designers involved were Louis Masreliez, Jean Baptiste Masreliez, Per Ljung and Ernst Philip Thoman. Many of the interiors created at that time remain today in their original form.

King Gustaf V (then Crown Prince) took over Tullgarn in 1881 and together with his consort Victoria, implemented extensive changes. The main building was decorated more like a modern functional summer home then a royal pleasure palace. Much of the present interior dates from the time of King Gustav V and Queen Viktoria, including the vestibule, whose walls are covered in hand-painted Dutch tiles. The breakfast room is furnished like a south German Bierstube, possibly reflecting the fact that Queen Viktoria came from Baden in Southern Germany. The royal couple used the palace as their summer residence.

References:

Wikipedia

User Reviews

Kanchan Banga (8 months ago)
Lovely visit and walk in the surrounding gardens of the palace, as visited in May and the palace is only open in the months of June - August. Took us about 1.5 hrs to leisurely walk around and admire the grounds - lovely buttercups on the lawn

Ajay Kumar (2 years ago)
Tullgarns Slott in Sweden is a true treasure that offers visitors a glimpse into the country's rich history and architectural grandeur. Located on the scenic shores of Lake Malaren, this magnificent castle is a testament to the opulence and elegance of the past. From the moment you approach Tullgarns Slott, you are greeted by its stunning façade and sprawling gardens, which immediately transport you to a bygone era. The castle's interiors are equally impressive, with beautifully preserved rooms that showcase exquisite craftsmanship and period furnishings. Each room tells a story, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the lives of the nobility who once resided within these walls. What makes Tullgarns Slott truly special is the attention to detail and the dedication to preserving its historical integrity. The knowledgeable guides provide fascinating insights into the castle's history, sharing tales of its former inhabitants and the events that shaped its legacy. Their passion for the subject matter shines through, making the tour not only informative but also engaging and entertaining. Beyond the castle itself, the surrounding parklands and gardens are a sight to behold. Perfectly manicured lawns, charming pathways, and vibrant flower beds create a tranquil and picturesque setting. It's a delight to explore the extensive grounds, whether strolling along the lakeside or finding a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the breathtaking views. In conclusion, Tullgarns Slott is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and anyone seeking a captivating cultural experience. The combination of the castle's grandeur, informative guides, and enchanting surroundings make it a truly memorable visit. Immerse yourself in the elegance and splendor of Sweden's past at Tullgarns Slott.

Aviva Katz (3 years ago)
Love this place. On the shore of the Baltic Sea, you can just hang around and watch the birds, walk your dog. We didn't actually go inside the museum but I am sure it is well worth the visit.

Deividas Visockas (3 years ago)
Beautiful Castle, free to walk around.

Miro Ankerman (3 years ago)
A magnificent English garden around a lovely building. Worth a stop if you are driving by, but I wouldn't make this your sole travel destination.

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