Millesgården
Stockholms län
Millesgården is a distinguished art museum and sculpture garden located on the island of Lidingö near Stockholm, Sweden. It was originally the home and studio of the renowned sculptor Carl Milles and his wife, artist Olga Milles. The site consists of three main parts: the artists' former residence, an art gallery, and an extensive sculpture park featuring many of Carl Milles's works. The house was designed by architect Karl M. Bengtson and inaugurated in 1908, with later extensions by Carl's brother, architect Evert Milles. Millesgården was transformed into a foundation in 1936 and gifted to the Swedish people. The grounds include the Woodland Chapel, the burial site of Carl and Olga Milles, and Anne's House, built in the early 1950s for Milles's secretary and curator Anne Hedmark. The newest addition is the Millesgården Art Hall, designed by Johan Celsing and opened in 1999. The sculpture garden features iconic works such as "Europa and the Bull," "Man and Pegasus," and "God's Hand," blending art with nature in a serene setting. Millesgården remains an inspiring cultural destination celebrating Swedish sculpture and artistic heritage.
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Tip: Visit Millesgården during the spring and summer months to fully enjoy the outdoor sculpture garden in pleasant weather. It is advisable to check opening hours and consider purchasing tickets in advance to avoid queues. Discounts may be available for seniors, students, and groups. Guided tours are often offered and provide valuable insights into the art and history of the site. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended to explore the terraces and gardens thoroughly.
Interesting facts
- •Millesgården was the setting for the opening scene of Poul Anderson's 1970 science fiction novel Tau Zero.
- •The Walker Brothers filmed their hit "The Sun Ain't Gonna Shine Anymore" in the sculpture garden.
- •The sculpture "Man and Pegasus" was a symbol used in Stockholm's bid for the 2004 Olympic Games.
History
Carl and Olga Milles purchased the land on Lidingö in 1906 and had their home designed by Karl M.
Bengtson, opening it in 1908.
The property was extended in collaboration with Carl's brother Evert Milles.
Millesgården served as the couple's residence until 1931.
In 1936, the estate was established as a foundation and gifted to the Swedish people.
The Woodland Chapel was added in the late 1940s as the burial site for the couple.
Anne's House was built in the early 1950s for Anne Hedmark, the longtime curator and hostess.
The Millesgården Art Hall was inaugurated in 1999, marking the latest expansion of the museum complex.
Place Guide
Artists' Former Home1908
The original residence designed by Karl M. Bengtson, showcasing the living and working environment of Carl and Olga Milles, including Carl Milles' studio and the antique collection.
Sculpture Garden
An outdoor park featuring many of Carl Milles's iconic sculptures such as "Europa and the Bull," "Man and Pegasus," and "God's Hand," blending art with the natural landscape.
Woodland Chapellate 1940s
A chapel added in the late 1940s that serves as the burial site of Carl and Olga Milles, embodying a peaceful spiritual space within the grounds.
Anne's Houseearly 1950s
Built in the early 1950s for Anne Hedmark, Millesgården's longtime secretary, hostess, and curator, reflecting the continued personal history of the site.
Millesgården Art Hall1999
A modern art hall designed by Johan Celsing and inaugurated in 1999, hosting exhibitions and complementing the historic parts of Millesgården.
Contact
Phone: 08-446 75 90
