Category: News

Nestled just south of the city of Västerås, Tidö Castle is celebrating an impressive milestone in 2025 — 400 years since construction began on this striking example of Swedish Renaissance architecture. With its symmetrical design, grand portals, and elegant interiors, Tidö stands as one of the most well-preserved castles from the Age of Greatness (stormaktstiden), and remains a living piece of history open to the public.

A Legacy That Began with Axel Oxenstierna

The castle we see today was commissioned in the 1620s by Axel Oxenstierna, Sweden’s legendary Chancellor and one of the most powerful figures of his time. Built between 1625 and 1641, Tidö was designed in the Dutch Renaissance style, characterized by a closed courtyard with four wings — the main building to the north and three lower wings surrounding it.

Before Oxenstierna’s era, the estate was already rich with history. A medieval fortress once stood here, constructed by the noble Gren family in the 15th century. It later passed through royal hands, including Queen Margaret Leijonhufvud and King Gustav Vasa.

From Decline to Preservation

After remaining in the Oxenstierna family for over 200 years, the castle went through several ownership changes and periods of decline. It wasn’t until 1890 that Carl-David von Schinkel acquired Tidö — and his family still owns and manages the estate today, maintaining its history and making it accessible to visitors.

What to see and do at Tidö Castle today

Tidö Castle has been open to the public since 1971. Visitors can enjoy guided tours through the castle’s paradvåning (state floor, piano nobile), which includes the Knights’ Hall, the Yellow Salon, the Gallery, and the Blue Dining Room — all decorated with historical paintings, stucco ceilings, and elegant Gustavian interiors.

The estate also includes a scenic park with deer and sheep, a café, a gift shop, and a motorbike & bicycle museum housed in the old stables.

Plan your visit to Tidö Castle this summer and take part in a 400-year celebration of history, heritage, and timeless elegance.

Learn more about Tidö Castle.

Read more about the 400 year celebrations on Västerås tidning (in Swedish).

Photo: Alpstedt, Wikimedia Commons

We’ve just added new tags to the interactive map on Castles of Sweden! You can now filter historic sites by era (like 16th or 18th century), architectural style (such as baroque or neoclassical), and building type (manor, palace, ruin, etc.). It’s a work in progress, so expect more updates and refinements soon as we continue expanding the database!

Jump over to our map and dive in and discover Sweden’s castles like never before!