Drottningholm Palace

Drottningholm Palace is a royal palace located in Stockholm, Sweden. It was built in the late 16th century and is considered one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture. The palace is still used by the Swedish royal family and is also a museum, open to the public. In 1991, it was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites.

facts about the palace:

• It was the primary residence of the Swedish royal family from 1981 to the present day.
• It was originally built as a summer palace for Queen Hedvig Eleonora in the late 1600s.
• The palace grounds feature extensive gardens and parks, as well as a Chinese Pavilion.
• The interior of the palace features a theater, which is one of the oldest in Europe, still in use today.
• The palace has undergone several renovations and restorations, including a major restoration in the late 1900s to preserve its historic features and character.
• The palace and its grounds are open to the public for tours and visits, offering a glimpse into the history and lifestyle of the Swedish royal family.

History of Drottningholm Palace

The history of Drottningholm Palace dates back to the late 16th century. It was originally built as a summer residence for Queen Hedvig Eleonora, wife of King Charles X, in the 1680s. Over the centuries, the palace has undergone several renovations and additions, reflecting changing architectural styles and the changing needs of the royal family. In the 19th century, for example, the palace was expanded and renovated in the Neoclassical style.

During World War II, the palace was used as a shelter for refugees and escaped prisoners of war. After the war, the palace was used as a residence by the Swedish royal family, and in the 1980s, a major restoration was carried out to preserve its historic features and character.

Today, Drottningholm Palace is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who are interested in its rich history, beautiful architecture, and unique opportunity to see a working palace still used by the Swedish royal family.

Things to do

There are several things to do at Drottningholm Palace:

1. Tour the Palace: Take a guided tour of the palace and explore its stunning interior, including the state apartments, theaters, and museums.
2. Visit the Gardens: Stroll through the beautiful grounds and gardens, including the Baroque-style park and the Chinese Pavilion, a unique building inspired by Chinese architecture.
3. Explore the Museum: The palace is home to several museums, showcasing the history and culture of Sweden, as well as exhibitions of fine art and decorative arts.
4. Watch a Performance: The palace’s theater is one of the oldest in Europe, still in use today. Visitors can attend performances of operas, plays, and concerts.
5. Take a Boat Trip: Take a scenic boat trip around the palace grounds, offering breathtaking views of the palace and its surroundings.
6. Visit the Park: The palace grounds feature extensive parks and gardens, with walking trails, picnic areas, and scenic lookouts.
7. Attend a Special Event: The palace hosts several special events throughout the year, including concerts, exhibitions, and festivals, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the palace in a unique and unforgettable way.

How to reach Drottningholm Palace

Drottningholm Palace is located in Stockholm, Sweden and there are several ways to reach it:

1. By Car: You can drive to the palace, and there is a large car park located on the grounds.
2. Public Transportation: You can take the Stockholm subway (T-bana) to Brommaplan station and then transfer to a bus or take the ferry from Stockholm city center to Drottningholm.
3. Boat Trip: You can also take a scenic boat trip from Stockholm city center to Drottningholm, offering breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
4. Bicycle: You can also reach the palace by bicycle, and there are bike paths and trails throughout the grounds.

No matter how you choose to reach Drottningholm Palace, it is recommended to check the local public transportation schedules and plan your trip in advance to ensure a smooth and convenient visit.

Nearby attractions

There are several nearby attractions to visit while in the area of Drottningholm Palace:

1. Stockholm city center: Drottningholm Palace is located just a short distance from Stockholm city center, offering visitors a chance to explore the city’s historic streets, museums, shops, and restaurants.
2. Skokloster Castle: This 17th-century Baroque castle is located just a short drive from Drottningholm and is considered one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Sweden.
3. The Vasa Museum: This museum is dedicated to the Vasa, a 17th-century Swedish warship that sank on its maiden voyage. The museum showcases the ship and its history, along with exhibitions of maritime history and culture.
4. Djurgården Park: This large park is located on an island in Stockholm and is a popular destination for picnics, walks, and exploring the city’s many museums and attractions.
5. The Royal Palace of Stockholm: The official residence of the Swedish royal family, this palace is located in the heart of Stockholm and is open to the public for tours and visits.

These are just a few of the many nearby attractions that visitors to Drottningholm Palace can explore while in the area.