Learn about Sweden’s cultural past at Malmo Castle, the oldest standing Renaissance castle in the country. Enjoy a piece of history and visit an aquarium and traditional fish market.
King Eric of Pomerania built the castle in 1436 and it was rebuilt in the 1530s by King Christian III of Denmark. The castle was created to control the shipping trade in the Oresund Strait as well as for the protection of the west side of the city. In the 1500s, the Danes imprisoned James Hepburn, Mary Queen of Scots’ third husband, here. In the courtyard, in the 1900s, there where beheadings.
A great way to learn about the castle is through the audio guide, available for rent. The complete self-guided tour takes about 2 hours and includes the exhibition on the 17th-century wars between Sweden and Denmark. In the summer months there are free, guided tours on Saturday and Sunday afternoons.
Inside the City Museum (Stadsmuseum) are exhibits about the cultural history of Malmo. In the Knight’s Hall are royal paraphernalia from the Medieval and Renaissance years, including artifacts from the St. Canute’s guild. In the Natural History Museum, younger visitors can marvel at the coral reefs and exotic fish in the aquarium and see stuffed animals, including 12,000 birds, foxes and a giraffe.
Outside is the Fiskehoddorna, a group of fisherman’s huts that were built in the 1800s. Between Tuesday and Saturday, you can buy fresh seafood from the local fishermen here.
Located north of Kungsparken and Castle Park, the castle is a short walk from Malmo city centre. During summer, a tram runs between the castle and the Malmo City Library in Castle Park. There is also parking available for a fee in front of the castle.
The Malmo Castle is open daily, with the exception of some public holidays. A detailed list of opening hours can be found on the official Malmo Stad (city) website under the museums section. Admission is free for visitors under 19 years of age and the entrance fee covers admission to the museums.
