Mälsåker Manor House is one of Sweden's finest baroque houses. Its history stretches back to the Middle Ages, through the great period of change in the seventeenth century, and the fire of 1945 which almost devoured the upper floors. Nowadays the building is both a challenge to craftsmen and restorers and a popular place to visit.

The earliest history of Mälsåker is shrouded in mystery. It's current form took shape in the 1670s. The owner, councillor of the realm, Gustav Soop, engaged the architect Nicodemus Tessin the Elder to modernise the "olde Stonehouse". Façades and interiors were formed according to baroque ideals. Wings were added, as was a stairs structure and an impressive terrace with a large curved stairway to the lake. The rooms were supplied with patterned flooring and stucco or painted linen fabric ceilings, the walls were faced with textiles or gilt leather, and decor-painted panels.

Change of ownership and disrepair

In the mid-1700s Mälsåker came into the ownership of the von Fersen family. Part of the living quarters then received new rococo fittings. But the seventeenth century fittings and furniture of the upper floor largely remained unchanged until the late nineteenth century. Mälsåker then changed hands several times and a period of disrepair began.

"A burnt down Tessin house"

In 1945 Mälsåker was owned by the Norwegian legation. One cold January night - with the home fires presumably burning hard - the roof caught fire when chimney shaft cracks caused fire in the loft floor structure. The roof was destroyed and the richly-ornamented upper floor stucco ceiling fell in. The house lacked a proper roof for several years. A temporary roof covering was replaced by "a faithful reconstruction" in 1951, but the building had by then already suffered considerable damage.

Extensive restoration work

In 1951 Mälsåker was made over to the Royal Academy of Letters, History and Antiquities, and current administrator is the National Heritage Board. In 1993 the Board established a workshop (bygggnadshytta) at the manor house and extensive restoration work began. Valuable skills in older building techniques were resurrected. The building is now gradually attaining its former glory.

Opening hours and guided tours

Mälsåker Manor House is closed for the season. Private guided tours can be arranged throughout the year. Book through tourist bureaux in the towns of Strängnäs and Mariefred.

Phone: 0152-296 99, 0152-296 94

Travel directions

The house is situated 20 km north of Mariefred. Take car or bus towards Stallarholmen, turn right towards Ytterslö, follow signs to Mälsåker Manor House. Travel time: 30 min approx from Mariefred or Strängnäs. There is a jetty close by the building for those arriving by private boat.

Contact:

Send E-mail to Turism Strängnäs