Gripsholm Castle

Gripsholm Castle is a castle in Sweden and is regarded as one of Sweden's finest historical monuments. It is located near the town of

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Mariefred by the lake Mälaren in central Sweden, in the municipality of Strängnäs.

Related Topics:
Mariefred - Mälaren - Strängnäs

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The castle was built around 1380 by Bo Jonsson (Grip) and belonged to his family until the confiscation of mansions and castles by King Gustav I of Sweden (Vasa) in 1526. The King subsequently fortified it with corner towers and a wall.

Related Topics:
Bo Jonsson (Grip) - Gustav I of Sweden

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It has belonged to the Swedish Royal Family ever since, and was used as a residence until 1713. It was briefly used as a prison between 1713 and 1773. In 1773 it was renovated by King Gustav III of Sweden, on behalf of his wife. A theater was also added at this time.

Related Topics:
Swedish Royal Family - Gustav III of Sweden - Theater

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Between 1889 and 1894 it underwent a heavy and controversial restoration by the architect Fredrik Lilljekvist, and many of the 17th and 18th century alterations were removed. The largest change that took place was the addition of a third floor, though the planned demolition of a wing did not take place.

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Today it houses a historical museum with the governmental collection of portraits (Statens porträttsamlingar).

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