Drawing of Sparre palace on Riddarholmen island in Stockholm

Sparreska Palatset, Riddarholmen

Sparreska Palatset: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites in Riddarholmen, Stockholm

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Sparreska Palatset (Sparre Palace) is a striking 17th-century edifice located on the storied island of Riddarholmen in central Stockholm. Renowned for its elegant French château-inspired architecture and significant historical transformations, the palace exemplifies Sweden’s aristocratic legacy, political evolution, and innovative spirit. Though today it houses the Supreme Administrative Court and is not open for interior visits, its remarkable façade, waterfront setting, and proximity to other notable monuments make it a must-see landmark for anyone interested in Stockholm’s architectural and cultural heritage.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Sparreska Palatset, including its history, architectural features, practical information for visitors, accessibility details, and suggestions for nearby attractions. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or casual traveler, this article will help you appreciate the unique role of Sparreska Palatset within Stockholm’s historic core.

Drawing of Sparre Palace on Riddarholmen in Stockholm from 1777

Sparreska Palatset historic building in Stockholm

The Sparre Palais at Birger jarls Torg 11, located on Riddarholmen Island in Stockholm, Sweden

Historical Background
- Origins and Early Ownership
- Transformations Through the Centuries
Architectural Features
- French Château Style
- Structural and Restoration Highlights
Visiting Sparreska Palatset
Riddarholmen Overview
- History, Architecture, and Visitor Information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Practical Resources
Sources

Historical Background

Origins and Early Ownership

Sparreska Palatset was commissioned in 1635 by Queen Christina, who granted the land to Per Sparre, a member of the Swedish Privy Council. This royal gesture was a form of atonement for the execution of Sparre’s father during the Linköping Bloodbath in 1600—a stark reminder of the turbulent relationship between Sweden’s monarchy and nobility (HMDB). Construction began promptly and was completed in 1647, with the original building standing one story lower than its present form.

Transformations Through the Centuries

The palace’s function has evolved significantly:

1763: Acquired by Professor David von Schultzenheim, who established Sweden’s first public maternity hospital (Allmänna BB) here in 1775, marking a progressive social milestone (HMDB).
1776: Purchased by the Swedish Crown and served as the headquarters for the Board of Admiralty (Amiralitetskollegiet) for nearly 150 years, reflecting the nation’s maritime ambitions.
20th Century: Housed the Swedish National Audit Office (Riksrevisionsverket) until 1967.
Today: Home to the Supreme Administrative Court (Kammarrätten), underscoring its continued administrative importance.

Architectural Features

French Château Style

Sparreska Palatset is distinguished by its French château-inspired design—a rarity in Stockholm. Its prominent terrace overlooks Riddarfjärden, providing panoramic views and embodying 17th-century tastes for both grandeur and connection with nature (HMDB). The façade originally featured green-painted windows set in bands painted to mimic cut stone (trompe-l’œil), complemented by decorative iron anchors (ankarslutar).

Structural and Restoration Highlights

Evolution: Initially constructed with a hipped roof and dormer windows, the palace was later raised to its current height.
Interior: While the interior has adapted to various uses—from noble residence to maternity hospital and then government offices—some historic elements have been carefully preserved.
Restoration: The most significant modern restoration occurred in 2011, focusing on historical authenticity. All 250 windows were renovated, rotten hardwood replaced with resilient Tärendö pine, and the façade repainted to match its 17th-century palette (HMDB).

Visiting Sparreska Palatset

Visiting Hours and Ticket Policies

Sparreska Palatset functions as a government office and is not open for interior tours. There is no public access to the inside, and thus no tickets or set visiting hours. Visitors are welcome to explore the palace’s exterior and the public spaces around Birger Jarls torg at any time (Statens fastighetsverk).

Accessibility and Getting There

Location: Birger Jarls torg 11, Riddarholmen, Stockholm.
Public Transport: Closest metro station is Gamla Stan (Old Town), a 5–10 minute walk. Several bus lines also stop nearby (Walk in Stockholm).
By Car: Limited parking is available at Riddarholmen car park; no visitor parking directly beside the palace.
By Foot: Easily accessible from Gamla Stan, the Royal Palace, and Parliament buildings.
By Boat: The palace is visible from sightseeing boat tours, though there are no public boat landings on the island.
Accessibility: The exterior and routes around Riddarholmen are mostly flat and wheelchair-friendly; the interior remains off-limits.

Photography Tips

Best Times: Spring through autumn, preferably in the early morning or late afternoon for optimal light.
Viewpoints: Birger Jarls torg and Evert Taubes terrass offer the best angles for photographing the palace and views over Riddarfjärden.
Permissions: Outdoor photography for personal use is allowed; commercial photography requires permission (Royalpalaces.se).

Nearby Attractions

Riddarholmskyrkan: Stockholm’s oldest preserved building and royal burial church.
Birger Jarls Torn: A medieval defensive tower with occasional public tours.
Wrangelska Palatset: Another grand historic palace.
Evert Taubes Terrass: Scenic terrace with panoramic city views (Trippa.se).
Gamla Stan: The medieval Old Town, just a short walk away, full of museums, cafés, and shops.

Best Times to Visit

Season: Late spring to early autumn offers the most favorable weather and vibrant city life.
Events: Stockholm’s “Kulturnatt” (Culture Night) and other heritage days may occasionally grant special access or guided tours—check local event calendars for updates (Statens fastighetsverk).

Riddarholmen Overview

History, Architecture, and Urban Landscape

Riddarholmen, the “Island of the Nobility,” has been central to Stockholm’s development since the Middle Ages. The iconic Riddarholmskyrkan was established as a Franciscan monastery in the late 1200s, later serving as the royal burial church (Stockholm Museum). In the 17th century, the Crown granted land to noble families, resulting in the construction of palaces like Sparreska and Wrangelska Palatset (HMDB). Today, Riddarholmen’s cobblestone streets, palatial buildings, and waterfront quays encapsulate a blend of medieval, Baroque, and neoclassical architecture (Landezine).

Visitor Information

Public Access: Riddarholmen is open year-round with no entrance fee for public areas.
Site Hours: Riddarholmskyrkan is typically open 10:00–17:00 during tourist season (April–October); verify current hours before visiting (Royalpalaces.se).
Accessibility: Generally wheelchair-friendly, though cobblestones may pose challenges for some visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can you enter Sparreska Palatset?
No, the palace is currently used for government purposes and is not open to public tours.

Are guided tours available?
While the interior is inaccessible, many guided walking tours of Riddarholmen include exterior commentary on Sparreska Palatset and other palaces.

Is photography allowed?
Yes, photography of the exterior is permitted and encouraged.

Are there any ticket costs?
There are no tickets required to view the exterior. Nearby attractions such as Riddarholmskyrkan may have separate admission fees.

Is Sparreska Palatset accessible to visitors with mobility challenges?
The exterior and surrounding public areas are accessible; however, the palace interior is not open to the public.

How can I find out about special events or tours?
Monitor the Statens fastighetsverk and local tourism sites for announcements about special access or cultural events.

Conclusion and Practical Resources

Sparreska Palatset stands as a remarkable symbol of Stockholm’s aristocratic, political, and social history. Although its interior is closed to the public, the palace’s beautifully restored façade and prime location on Riddarholmen make it an essential stop for anyone exploring the city’s historic core. Take advantage of the pedestrian-friendly environment to photograph the palace, enjoy panoramic city views, and delve into neighboring historical sites such as Riddarholmskyrkan and Birger Jarl’s Tower.

For special access opportunities, guided tours, and up-to-date information on events, regularly check official sources and Stockholm tourism platforms. Consider using digital guides or apps for interactive walking tours and insider tips to enrich your experience.