Kalmar castle - 800 years of war, feasting and power games

Writer: Helena Bergström

Updated: October 2026 | There are castles that are beautiful to see from a distance, and then there are castles where history is truly felt when you step inside the walls. Kalmar Castle definitely belongs to the latter category. Here kings and queens have lived, powerful decisions have been made, magnificent parties have been held and people have been imprisoned under difficult conditions.

We visited Kalmar Castle during a summer trip and were fascinated by both the grand architecture and all the stories that fit within the walls. We also took the opportunity to experience the castle from the outside, both during the day and in the evening light. It is truly one of Sweden's most impressive castles!

Kalmar Castle – from defensive fortress to Renaissance palace

The history of Kalmar Castle began around 1180, when a defensive tower was built on the site to protect against enemies who might come by sea. At the end of the 13th century, Magnus Ladulås had a much larger castle complex built with a ring wall and towers. Thanks to its strategic location on the Kalmar Strait, close to the then border with Denmark, Kalmar became one of Sweden's most important fortresses.

In 1397, the Kalmar Union was formed, uniting Sweden, Denmark and Norway under a common ruler. The event is an important part of the city's history, even though the medieval castle looked completely different from the castle we see today.

It was primarily under Gustav Vasa and his sons Erik XIV and Johan III that the castle took on its current appearance. During the 16th century, the old defensive fortress was rebuilt into a magnificent Renaissance palace, inspired by architecture and interior design from the continent.

But the castle also experienced war and destruction. During the Kalmar War, it was captured by the Danes in 1611 and remained in Danish hands until 1613. After the Peace of Roskilde in 1658, the castle lost its importance as a border fortress. Over time, parts of the building were used as a prison, a storehouse and even a crown distillery.

A visit inside the castle walls

When we visited the castle, we were allowed to walk around on our own. It was during the pandemic, and the usual guided tours hadn't started for the season yet. But it was great to discover the different rooms and exhibitions at our own pace.

As soon as you enter the courtyard, you can feel the wings of history. From here, doors and stairs lead to halls, royal chambers, defense facilities and exhibitions. It is almost difficult to imagine how many people have moved here over the centuries.

The Golden Hall and the Rut Hall

Some of the most impressive rooms are the Golden Hall and the Rut Hall. The Golden Hall has a stunning gilded coffered ceiling from 1576, which is one of the castle's most famous features. It is really worth stopping here to look at all the details.

The Rutsalen is another beautiful room, with richly decorated wall panels and inlay work in various types of wood. During the reign of Johan III, the hall was used for representation, and it is not difficult to imagine the magnificent clothes and solemn events.

Peter, of course, couldn't help but try out the throne in the Rutsalen.... Little moments like these make a historical visit extra fun!

The Palace Church and Royal Apartments

We also looked into the castle church, which dates back to the 16th century. The church is still used for weddings and other events and is a beautiful example of how the castle was both a defensive structure and a royal residence.

We also got to peek into royal chambers with impressive furnishings.

Johan III's Easter meal – a celebration beyond the ordinary

One of the exhibitions we particularly liked is about Johan III's Easter meal in 1586. Here the visitor gets an insight into how a truly royal feast could be held during the Renaissance.

It wasn't just about serving food. Meals were also a way to display wealth, power, and status. Tables could be laden with dishes, and presentation was at least as important as taste.

One of the more imaginative stories is about how live birds could be hidden in pies, so that they flew out when the pies were opened. It's hard to imagine a more surprising treat!

The exhibition about the Easter meal is still there and is part of the castle's permanent exhibitions.

Kalmar Castle as a women's prison

But Kalmar Castle's history is far from just about royal splendor and festivities. During several periods, parts of the castle were used as a prison, and in the 19th century there was a women's prison here.

We visited the exhibition about the lives of women and the harsh conditions of captivity. The contrast with the royal halls was striking. It is a dark and moving part of the castle's history, showing how the same building has been able to accommodate completely different worlds. For us, it was one of the exhibitions that made the strongest impression.

More exhibitions and hidden stories

There is much more to discover at Kalmar Castle. In the permanent exhibition about the castle's 800-year history, you can follow its development from a medieval defensive castle to a Renaissance palace and its later use.

There is also the Agda Chamber, which tells the story of Agda Persdotter and her relationship with Erik XIV, as well as an exhibition about the castle's hidden treasures. The Royal Kitchen gives you an insight into how cooking was done at the castle.

When we were here, we also saw a temporary photography exhibition by Erik Johansson, Beyond the Horizon. His imaginative and almost surreal images fit the castle environment in an unexpected way. That exhibition was part of our visit in 2021 and is no longer on display, but the castle regularly has new temporary exhibitions.

Kalmar Castle is beautiful even from the outside

You don't even need to go inside the castle to appreciate it. We walked around the surroundings on several occasions and found the castle to be just as beautiful from a distance as it is up close.

The strong walls, towers, moats and green surroundings make Kalmar Castle a fantastic photo opportunity. It is especially beautiful when the evening light falls on the building and is reflected in the water.

Feel free to combine your visit to the castle with a walk in the city park or through the charming alleys of the Old Town.

Discover more of Kalmar

Kalmar Castle is of course just one of many attractions in Kalmar. We also recommend a walk in the Old Town, a visit to the Kalmar County Museum and a tour through the historic quarters on Kvarnholmen.

READ MORE: Things to do in Kalmar – tips on attractions and experiences