Läckö Castle is a magnificent medieval castle in Sweden, strategically placed on an island in Lake Vänern, Västergötland.

Brynolf Algotsson, Bishop of Skara, laid the foundations for a fortified castle in 1298 – originally as a fort that consisted of two or three houses surrounded by a wall. After a fire during the 1470s, the fort was expanded by bishop Brynolf Gerlachsson. After the reformation in 1527, King Gustav Vasa took possession of Läckö. Field Marshal Jacob Pontusson De la Gardie was granted the property in 1615. de la Gardie embarked on an extensive building spree, including the third floor of the keep. The portal to the main courtyard was added during his period, as were the frescos depicting people and winding plants found in niches, stairwells and the rooms on the third floor.

In 1654, Count Magnus Gabriel De la Gardie initiated major construction projects at Läckö. A fourth floor was built in the main building and a number of artists were hired to decorate the walls and ceilings of the castle.

Läckö is a national monument and has been managed by the National Property Board since 1993. The National Property Board, the Foundation of Läckö Castle and the National Museum of Fine Arts work together to maintain and furnish the castle in a Baroque period style. Läckö Castle Opera puts on an annual opera production in the castle’s inner courtyard, with performances for about three weeks beginning in the middle of July. And when you visit, make sure you don’t miss out the garden which has become a major attraction!