Photo: Ulf Fabiansson
Opera and live music at captivating Baroque castle Strategically located by Lake Vänern, Läckö Castle is captivating with its fascinating history, Baroque exterior and interior, ancient medieval vaults and treasures, and magical garden. This summer, the castle also offers a great programme of events. By Malin Norman |
Photos: Läckö Slott
Läckö Castle is known as De la Gardie’s magnificent mansion on the shores of Lake Vänern, but it is actually much older. Brynolf Algotsson, the bishop of Skara, laid the foundations for a fortified castle in 1298. Its strategic history probably goes back even longer, however. The castle was confiscated from the church and taken over by the crown in 1527, and in 1615, it was granted to Count Jacob De la Gardie for services to the nation. His son Magnus Gabriel was only 30 when he took over the title and estates and began an extensive extension of the castle. It is essentially Magnus Gabriel’s palace we see today. 50 |
Issue 142
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May 2022
“Läckö Castle is a hidden gem, also for many Swedes,” says Jan Malmgren, CEO of Stiftelsen Läckö Slott (The Foundation of Läckö Castle). “It’s a fantastic experience to see the castle, which has been left untouched. Lots of people come to see the garden and the surroundings as well, to have a nice meal or stay the night, and to enjoy the exhibitions and events.” The walled castle garden is an oasis. Gardener Simon Irvine looked after the garden from 1990 and transformed it into what we see today. His focus on sustainability and organic produce has inspired gardens
around the world. Last year, Irvine retired and left the garden in the capable hands of gardeners Jenny and Erik, who continue to curate it in the same spirit. Everything is organically cultivated and the garden is a living resource for the castle, with vegetables, spices and edible flowers. Travelling, ceramics and forests Every day, visitors can take part in guided tours around the castle and there are tailored adventures for kids, with actors and guides to entertain. This year, the castle opens the exhibition Stamped ALP in the small courtyard in collaboration with Rörstrand Museum. Here, visitors can familiarise themselves with classic porcelain and ceramics made in the factory of Rörstrand. On the second floor, the new exhibition Travelling, in collaboration with Nationalmuseum (Sweden’s
