Axmar Bruk
Gävleborgs län
Axmar Bruk, established in 1671 by mining master Claes Depken, is a historically significant ironworks located near Axmarby in Gästrikland, Sweden. The ironworks operated under various owners until around 1920 and was formally closed in 1927. The site includes a preserved blast furnace from the 1860s, which stands as a monument to the iron production era. The ironworks was modernized in the 19th century by the von Schinkel family, who relocated the industrial buildings closer to the sea and constructed a large stone manor house known as Axmar Castle in 1860. Although many original buildings have been demolished, the English-style park remains well-preserved, featuring ponds, canals, and a small island with a pavilion that serves as a cultural symbol today. Axmar Bruk is now owned and maintained by the non-profit association Hyttan, which preserves the industrial heritage and cultural landscape in cooperation with the Gävleborg County Administrative Board. Visitors can enjoy the seaside restaurant Axmar Brygga, summer cafés, and exhibitions of art and crafts in the historic buildings. The site offers a unique glimpse into Sweden's ironworking history and the elegant lifestyle of the 19th century.
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Tip: The best time to visit Axmar Bruk is during the summer months when the English park is lush and the summer café in the Yellow House is open. Booking ahead is recommended for dining at Axmar Brygga, especially on weekends. Visitors can enjoy art exhibitions in the summer and explore the cultural reserve at their own pace. Discounts may be available for groups or members of heritage organizations. Comfortable walking shoes are advised for exploring the park and ruins.
Interesting facts
- •Axmar Bruk was destroyed and rebuilt after a Russian invasion in 1721.
- •Brita Behm, nicknamed "Iron-Brita," was a notable 18th-century female ironworks manager with a strong business acumen.
- •The site once featured both a large manor house and a castle in the same park, which is considered unique.
- •The preserved blast furnace dates from the 1860s modernization period.
- •The pavilion on a small island in the English park is a symbol of the Hyttan association that now manages the site.
History
Axmar Bruk was founded in 1671 by Claes Depken, who was ennobled as Anckarström in 1676.
The ironworks was sold multiple times, notably to Brita Behm, known as "Iron-Brita," who managed the works through much of the 18th century.
The site was destroyed by Russian troops in 1721 but was rebuilt shortly after.
In the 19th century, the von Schinkel family modernized the ironworks and built the stone manor house known as Axmar Castle.
The ironworks ceased operations around 1920 and was officially closed in 1927.
Since 2011, parts of the site have been protected as a cultural reserve.
Place Guide
The Blast Furnace (Hyttan)1860s
A preserved blast furnace from the 1860s featuring six Lancashire hearths, representing the industrial modernization of the ironworks. It stands as a monument to the site's iron production history.
English Park19th century
A well-preserved English-style park established by the von Schinkel family, featuring ponds, canals, and a pavilion on a small island. The park reflects the elegance and grandeur of the 19th-century ironworks owners.
Axmar Castle (Axmar Slott)1860
A large stone manor house built in 1860 by the von Schinkel family. Although demolished in 1970, it was historically significant as part of the ironworks estate and the landscaped park.
Bläckhornet Building
An old warehouse building by the sea now used for art and craft exhibitions, connecting the industrial past with contemporary culture.
