Malmö Castle, Malmo (must see)

The first Malmo Castle was built in 1434, when Sweden, Denmark, and Norway were united under one king. The alliance dissolved, and Malmo became a part of Denmark. After the castle was partially demolished in battle, King Christian III of Denmark built a new castle in the 1530s. Malmo Castle is Scandinavia's oldest preserved Renaissance castle.

From 1568-1573, James Hepburn, the 4th Earl of Bothwell, was imprisoned here. James Hepburn was Mary, Queen of Scots' third husband. He was suspected of the murder of Mary's second husband but had been released from the Tower of London.

In 1607, Christian IV of Denmark added a storehouse featuring Dutch Renaissance gables.

After the Swedes gained control of Malmo, they modernized the castle in 1658 with a new defense system, including the moat. Over later centuries, the castle fell into disrepair and was used as a granary and an arsenal. The castle functioned as a prison from 1828 until 1909. In the 1930s, the castle was restored to reflect Renaissance style.

Visitors can see the royal rooms with ancient portraits. Don't miss the Bible in the entrance hall. This Bible belonged to Christian IV of Denmark and was printed in 1633.

Today, the castle houses the Malmo Art Museum and the Natural History Museum of Malmo. The Natural History Museum features an earthquake simulator. The Art Museum features Nordic Art and photo exhibitions.

Why You Should Visit:
The Castle tells the story of Malmo's intriguing history. Visitors could spend a whole day at Malmo Castle between the castle and the museum exhibits.

Tips:
One entrance fee covers access to the castle and both museums. Be sure and grab an English language guide at the entrance as most of the exhibits are not translated.