Drottningholm Palace
Stockholms län
Drottningholm Palace, located on Lovön island near Stockholm, is the private residence of the Swedish royal family and one of Sweden's most significant royal palaces. Originally built in the late 16th century by John III for Queen Catherine Jagiellon, the palace was rebuilt in the late 17th century after a devastating fire, under the direction of architects Nicodemus Tessin the Elder and Younger. The palace showcases exquisite baroque and rococo architecture, with interiors featuring sculptures by Nicolaes Millich and wood carvings by Burchard Precht. Throughout the 18th century, it served as a summer residence for Swedish monarchs and was a center of grand court festivities, including masquerades and tournaments. The palace complex includes the Drottningholm Palace Theatre and the exotic Chinese Pavilion, set within beautifully maintained baroque gardens and English-style parks. Since 1981, it has been the permanent home of King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia. The palace and its grounds are largely open to the public, offering visitors a glimpse into Sweden's royal heritage and European aristocratic culture.
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Tip: Visit Drottningholm Palace during spring and summer for the best experience of its gardens and outdoor areas. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid queues. The palace offers guided tours and an app to enhance your visit with royal history. Discounts are available for children, seniors, and groups. Note that some parts of the palace remain private as they serve as the royal family's residence, so check opening times and access restrictions before visiting.
Interesting facts
- •Drottningholm Palace is Sweden's best-preserved royal palace from the 17th century.
- •The palace and its grounds were designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1991, the first in Sweden.
- •The palace theatre within the complex is one of the few 18th-century theatres in Europe still in use with original stage machinery.
- •The palace gardens combine formal baroque style with an English landscape park, reflecting changing tastes over centuries.
- •King Gustav IV Adolf was held under guard in the palace's Chinese Drawing Room for eleven days after his deposition in 1809.
History
The original Drottningholm Palace was built in 1580 by John III for Queen Catherine Jagiellon, but it burned down in 1661.
Queen Dowager Hedwig Eleonora commissioned the reconstruction, which began in 1662 with architect Nicodemus Tessin the Elder and was completed by his son.
The palace was a summer residence for the Swedish royal court throughout the 18th century, witnessing grand festivities under King Gustav III.
Ownership transferred to the Swedish state in 1777, but the royal family retained usage rights.
The palace fell into neglect during the 19th century but was restored and has since become a symbol of Sweden's royal heritage and European baroque architecture.
Place Guide
The Royal Apartments17th-18th century
Located in the southern wing, these rooms serve as the official residence of King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia, featuring exquisite rococo interiors and original furnishings.
Drottningholm Palace Theatre1766
An 18th-century theatre rebuilt in grand rococo style after a fire in 1762, renowned for its original stage machinery and period performances.
Chinese Pavilion (Kina Slott)18th century
An exotic rococo pavilion built as a royal retreat and symbol of 18th-century chinoiserie, surrounded by a landscaped park.
Baroque Garden and English Park17th-18th century
The palace gardens feature a formal baroque garden designed in the 17th century and an English landscape park added later, offering picturesque walking paths and views.
Contact
Phone: 08-402 61 00
