Hessensteinska palatset, Baroque palace in Riddarholmen, Sweden
Hessensteinska palatset is a baroque palace on Riddarholmen with yellow plastered walls and French-influenced architecture featuring a distinctive central tower with a pointed spire. The building has multiple wings arranged around the main structure, forming a complete architectural complex in the heart of the old town.
The palace was built in 1630 for a royal councilor and underwent major renovations in the late 17th century under a renowned architect. These reconstructions shaped the baroque style visible today.
The interior contains hand-painted wooden ceilings and ornate carved details created over several centuries, showing how Swedish nobility lived and decorated their homes. These decorative elements reflect the tastes and values of the aristocratic families who resided here.
The palace now serves as the seat of a high court and is not open to the public for regular visits. However, visitors can walk around the exterior and enjoy the surrounding square freely.
A notable member of the royal family once stayed at the palace temporarily after being displaced from the main royal residence by a catastrophic event. This brief chapter in the palace's story remains largely overlooked by visitors.
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