- Type
- Castle
- Built
- 1573 · 16th century
- Location
- Örebro, Sweden
- Style
- Romanesque architecture
- Coordinates
- 59.2739°, 15.2153°
History
Tradition links the first defensive tower on an islet in the Svartån with the 13th century and Birger Jarl, but there is no evidence for this: the stronghold guarding the river crossing was most likely built in the mid-14th century, probably under King Magnus Eriksson, and from the 1360s the sources speak of a royal castle. In 1434 it was taken by Engelbrekt, leader of the rising against Eric of Pomerania, who was later granted the castle as a fief. From 1573 Duke Charles, later King Charles IX, rebuilt it as a Renaissance residence with corner towers; the work was completed by his widow Christina. Between sessions of the Riksdag the castle served as a prison, armoury and granary, and since 1766 it has been the residence of the regional governor. A thorough restoration in 1897–1901 to designs by the architect Thor Thorén gave it its present romantic form.
What to see
The square castle with round corner towers rises straight from the water in the middle of the city, ringed by riverside promenades. Guided tours lead through the state rooms, the towers and the former dungeons, and exhibitions trace the history of the castle and the region. The courtyard hosts events and markets.
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