Hildasholm
Dalarnas län
Hildasholm is a manor-like estate located on the shores of Lake Siljan near Leksand Church in Dalarnas län, Sweden. Designed by architect Torben Grut and built between 1910 and 1911, it was originally named Stengården and gifted by Axel Munthe to his wife Hilda Pennington-Mellor. The property features well-preserved Arts and Crafts architecture and gardens inspired by English and French traditions, including a southern flower garden and northern clipped fir trees. The estate was donated in 1980 to the Hildasholm Foundation, established by Axel and Hilda Munthes' descendants and local cultural institutions. It was declared a listed building in 1988 and underwent a major restoration from 1994 to 1999, supported by regional and EU funding. Today, Hildasholm offers guided tours, art exhibitions, theater performances, and family events during the summer season, inviting visitors to explore its historic house, enchanting gardens, and cultural atmosphere.
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Tip: The best time to visit Hildasholm is during the summer season when guided tours, art exhibitions, and theatrical performances are available. It is recommended to book tickets for guided house and garden tours in advance through the official website. Visitors can also enjoy the on-site café and seasonal events suitable for families. Discounts may be available for groups or children, so checking in advance is advised.
Interesting facts
- •Hildasholm was designed by notable architect Torben Grut, known for his work in early 20th-century Swedish architecture.
- •The estate's gardens include a traditional Swedish kitchen garden recreated based on 1920s and 1930s designs.
- •Hildasholm was declared a listed building (byggnadsminne) in 1988, recognizing its cultural and historical significance.
- •The property was donated by Axel Munthe's son Malcolm to a foundation involving family descendants and local cultural institutions in 1980.
- •The gardens blend inspirations from England and France, featuring both flower beds and clipped fir trees.
History
Hildasholm was designed by Torben Grut and constructed between 1910 and 1911 as a gift from Axel Munthe to his wife, Hilda Pennington-Mellor.
Originally named Stengården, it was renamed Hildasholm after Hilda's death in 1967.
In 1980, the estate was donated to the Hildasholm Foundation, formed by the Munthe family descendants and local cultural organizations.
It was declared a protected building in 1988.
A comprehensive restoration took place from 1994 to 1999, funded by regional authorities and the EU, preserving the house and gardens for future generations.
Place Guide
The Manor House1910–1911
The central building of Hildasholm, designed by Torben Grut and built in 1910–1911, showcases Arts and Crafts architectural style and houses exhibitions and guided tours revealing the history of the Munthe family and the estate.
The Southern Flower GardenCirca 1910
A vibrant garden area inspired by English and French styles, notable for its surprising floral richness given the local climate, located on the sunny southern side of the estate.
The Northern Garden with Clipped FirsCirca 1910
This garden area features carefully shaped fir trees, providing a distinct visual contrast to the southern flower garden and reflecting traditional garden styles.
The Kitchen Garden2004 (recreated)
Recreated in 2004 on the original site, this traditional Swedish kitchen garden grows peas, carrots, onions, root vegetables, and flowers, reflecting the estate’s historical horticultural practices from the 1920s and 1930s.
The Medicinal Plant Garden2004
Established alongside the kitchen garden in 2004, this garden features medicinal plants inspired by Axel Munthe’s interest in natural remedies and botanical knowledge.
Contact
Phone: 0247-100 62