Visingsö castle in Näs

The ruins of the castle, Visingsö Castle, in Näs are located at the southern tip of Visingsö, about six kilometres from the ferry terminal. The castle dates back to the first half of the 12th century and was probably built on the initiative of King Sverker the Elder or his son Karl Sverkersson. The ruin is considered to be one of Sweden's oldest non-ecclesiastical stone buildings and is well worth a visit!

To reach the castle ruins, you can walk, cycle or drive. The ruin is not immediately obvious, so you have to get closer to the edge of the headland in order to see the outlines of this amazing slice of history. It is possible to get into the remains of the castle. From the lake side you have a fantastic view of Lake Vättern and on a clear day you can see the skyline of Jönköping towering in the distance. The ruin can be visited day and night.

A strategic location in the kingdom

The idea that there was a medieval centre of power on the southern tip of Visingsö is staggering. At the time, the castle was positioned in a strategic location in the kingdom. From here, one could have a good view of ships approaching across Lake Vättern. At the time of the castle’s construction, a battle for royal power was raging in Sweden. The warring parties were the Sverker family from Östergötland and the Erik family from Västergötland.

During the 12th and 13th centuries, power changed hands between them and the castle would be used as a royal residence for special occasions. Several of the country's kings also died on the island: Karl Sverkersson in 1167, Erik Knutsson in 1216 and Sverker the Younger in 1222. Magnus Ladulås also died here and was the last king to reside at the castle.

The king and his entourage would travel to the castle where hunting and festivities would be organized for them. But important meetings were also held there. Imagine seeing the king's entourage coming across Lake Vättern, days of preparations having been made for their arrival. The servants would have prepared a feast, and the king's sleeping quarters would have been aired and warmed by a crackling fire. There would be whispers and nervous chatter around you about what might happen this time.

Rebellion against King Birger

Visingsö Castle ruins were probably destroyed in 1318 when it was taken by Småland civilians in a rebellion against King Birger. Archaeological findings show that the castle burned down. The site takes us back to an extremely far away time, but this is what makes it so exciting. Imagine if the walls that remain today could speak and tell of everything they heard and saw. Let your imagination run wild on your next visit and think about all the thrilling things that happened inside the ruin walls.

A refreshing dip in a historic setting

Just a stone's throw from Visingsö Castle you will find the bathing area in Näs. Take the opportunity to take a dip in Lake Vättern and enjoy a picnic or a quiet moment in this historic setting with the castle ruins as your neighbour. The bathing area is run by volunteers, and you can barbecue here and enjoy your picnic in one of the gazebos.

How to get here