The stormy life of the youngest daughter of the King of Poland and Grand Duke of Lithuania Sigismund the Old and his wife Bona Sforza is like a broken necklace of pearls, scattered across four countries – Poland, Lithuania, Finland and Sweden. Go on a journey following the traces of 500–year–old history and you will see old castles, cathedrals, royal mansions, renaissance sculptures of extraordinary beauty, luxurious jewelry and crowns – silent witnesses of the secrets, joys and sufferings of Catherine Jagiellon. Travel and experience how Catherine managed to become from unloved to desirable, from a prisoner to the Queen of Sweden, respected on both sides of the Baltic Sea.
Immerse yourself in the royal life!
This thematic route was created by journalists Gerda Butkuvienė, tourism communication specialist, and Ilona Skujaitė, author of the historical novel about Catherine Jagiellon "The Bride of War" (publishing house "Alma littera"). The author of the visualization is Aistė Lapinskaitė. The route was created in cooperation with the Embassy of the Republic of Lithuania in the Kingdom of Sweden.
Royal Wawel Castle (Poland) – Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania (Lithuania) – Kastelholmen Castle (Åland Islands) – Turku Castle (Finland) – Vaxholm Harbor (Sweden) – Gripsholm Castle (Sweden) – Strängnäs Cathedral (Sweden) – Svarstjö Castle (Sweden) – Eskilstuna (Sweden) – Vadstena Castle (Sweden) – Stockholm Royal Palace (Sweden) – Uppsala Cathedral (Sweden) – Stegeborg Castle (Sweden) – Drotningholm Palace (Sweden) – Kalmar Castle (Sweden) – Borgholm Castle (Öland Island, Sweden).
1. Royal Wawel Castle, Krakow, Poland
Place of birth. Catherine Jagiellon, the youngest daughter of the King of Poland and the Grand Duke of Lithuania Sigismund the Old and his wife Bona Sforza, was born in 1526, 1st of November. Catherine was the fifth child of this royal family – she had an only brother Sigismund Augustus and three sisters – Izabela, Sofia and Ann. Catehrine lived in Krakow for almost 27 years with breaks.
Excerpt from the book The Bride of War:
My father is a king from the honorable Jagiellon dynasty, which ruled half of Europe. The mother is a noble relative of the rulers of the Duchy of Milan. She is fighting for Poland and Lithuania like a lioness. I must be an obedient daughter and a dutiful queen. After all, I am their last child. And the disappointment that they had another unexpected daughter.
VISIT: The story of Smaka, the dragon of Wawel Castle, is one of the legends surrounding the castle in Krakow, which became the royal residence of the rulers of Lithuania and Poland (together with Vilnius). In its dungeons, you can still visit the dragon's cave. The castle was built by the Vistula River since the 11th century, and it became a representative Renaissance palace during the time of Sigismund the Elder and Bona Sforza, Catherine Jagiellon's parents. In Wawel Castle, you can visit the royal apartments, the treasury, the arsenal, the cathedral with the sarcophagi of the rulers, including Sigismund the Elder and Sigismund Augustus, the brother of Catherine Jagiellon..
Where?: Zamek Wawel, Kraków
More: https://wawel.krakow.pl/en
Photos by Gediminas Inčiūra
2. National Museum Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania
Royal wedding. October 4, 1562 Catherine Jagiellon married the Prince of Sweden and Duke of Finland Johan Vasa. During the solemn wedding ceremony in the Vilnius Cathedral, Catherine's husband put on a gold ring with the Latin inscription "Nemo nisi mors" (In English – nothing but death). Valerijonas Protasevičius, bishop of Vilnius, presided over the solemn mass and gave the sacrament of marriage.
Excerpt from the book The Bride of War:
The great hour of princess Catherine is solemn and enlightened by the prayers of the multitude gathered for her future happy married life. She calmly says the words of the oath, because the handsome and young Duke of Finland is marrying her just when she no longer expected to become nither a wife nor a mother. Now she feels as if in a dream – as if it is not she who is standing in front of the altar, but unknown woman she saw in the mirror for the first time this morning, decked out in wedding clothes. Today, all eyes are on her, although until then, almost no one noticed her for years.
VISIT: The Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania is the cradle and symbol of Lithuanian statehood, after all, it was from here in the 14th century. letters of Gediminas flew to European cities inviting craftsmen to settle in Vilnius, the rulers resided, it was the political, cultural and spiritual center of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. Archaeological finds, restored interiors, collections of weapons and armor, tapestries, maps and other artistic and historical values can be viewed in the reconstructed palace.
Where?: Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, Katedros square 4, Vilnius
More: https://www.valdovurumai.lt/
Photos by GO Vilnius
3. Kastelholmen Castle, Finland
Husband's wedding gift. In the marriage contract of Catherine Jagiellon and Johan Vasa, it was discussed what the bride's dowry would be and the bridegroom's dowry written for her – real estate that passed to the widow after her husband's death. Johan Vasa bequeathed to his wife wealth and lands in Finland and Estonia (they belonged to the Kingdom of Sweden at the time), including Åland with numerous islands and Kastelholmen Castle.
Excerpt from the book The Bride of War:
Duke Johan proved to be so generous: he signed me lands in Finland and allowed me to transport sixty people from his estate with him to Abo - the ladies of the court, the confessor, the chancellor, the grooms with all my horses, and whatever else I want! But most importantly, Prince Johan, being a Lutheran, agreed that the wedding should take place according to Catholic traditions and that our future children would be raised as Catholics.
VISIT: In the Åland archipelago belonging to Finland – over 6.5 thousand islands! One of them is the impressive medieval Castle of Kastelholmen, built in the 16th century by order of the Swedish king Gustav Vasa rebuilt into a royal hunting castle. It was in this castle that the king's son Johan Vasa was appointed Duke of Finland in 1556. In the incompletely restored castle, its history is presented, you can see the former prison and kitchen facilities, learn about the witch trials held here. For visitors from Lithuania, the guide must show the coat of arms of Catherine Jagiellon and the Republic of the Two Nations with the Lithuanian flag and the Polish eagle displayed in one of the galleries. The castle can be visited during the season – from May to September.
Where?: Kastelholms slott, 5 Tosarbyvägen, Kastelholm, Åland Islands
More: https://www.aland.travel/kastelholm-en
Photos by Gerda Butkuvienė
4. Turku Castle, Finland
Honeymoons before the war. After an adventurous post-wedding trip, Kotryna Jogailaitė came to live in the castle of her husband, Duke of Finland Jonas Vaza, in the city of Turku (then Abo). in 1562 On Christmas Day, lavish celebrations were organized to welcome the queen, and showing off his wife, Jonas Vaza organized an exhibition of her impressive dowry. The newlyweds lived together in Turku Castle for just 8 months, because during a power struggle between John Vasa and his brother, King Erik XIV of Sweden, the Swedes attacked the castle.
Excerpt from the book The Bride of War:
The table is laden with beautiful silver dishes, but the most surprised glances of the guests are directed to the gilded forks from my dowry, placed next to the knives and plates. Some use them cautiously. The others timidly stab the meat with them, while Bishop Abo pretends not to notice them at all and continues to eat with his hands, using only a knife. At first I didn't understand why the guests avoided them, but then I remembered my mother's stories that people in Poland and Lithuania also looked suspiciously at the forks she brought from Italy, because the two spikes reminded them of the devil's horns.
VISIT: 13th century Turku Castle in Finland's oldest city still preserves the traces of Catherine Jagiellon. The 16th century remains here. The art of kings and queens, her family portraits are presented. It was Duke Johan and his wife Duchess Catherine Jagiellon, before becoming the royal couple of Sweden, who turned the defensive castle into a Renaissance palace. During the season, you can book a guided tour of the castle courtyard, the medieval part of the castle, and a special tour for children called "Princess's Journey", introducing the life of Catherine Jagiellon.
Where?: Turun Linna, Linnankatu 80, Turku
More: https://www.turku.fi/en/turkucastle
Photo by Ilona Skujaitė
5. Port of Vaxholm, Sweden
The fate of the wedding ring. In 1563 in August, Catherine Jagiellon and Johan Vasa were brought to the port of Vaxholm by ship and awaited the verdict there. Johan was informed that his brother the king would imprison him, and Catherine Jagiellon was given the grace to live in freedom, but she chose to be imprisoned together with her husband. It is likely that it was here that the scene with the wedding ring, enscripted with Latin word Nemo Nisi Mors, which Catherine showed to the king's minister while explaining her decision, took place.
Excerpt from the book The Bride of War:
Her eyes only see him standing at the other end of the deck, Duke John of Finland. Time seems to turn back: there are no longer creaking floorboards under her feet, but the palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, where she first saw the persistent Swedish prince with ice-colored eyes, who had crossed the Baltic Sea for her. Her ears hear again how Duke Johan is saying the wedding vows in the Vilnius cathedral with a voice trembling from excitement, and her body longingly remembers the sinful closeness of her husband. She would rather die than sink into freezing loneliness again.
Visit: Vaxholm – the pearl of the Stockholm archipelago. It can be reached from Stockholm by boat (the trip takes about an hour) or by car. Vaxholm consists of 70 islands, the most impressive of which is the island of Vaxholmen with the Kastelletto fortress. During the season (from mid-May to the end of August), a cable car takes you to the fortress of 16th century. The ancient walls, which were built on the orders of King Gustav Vasa to protect the Stockholm archipelago, now house a museum, a cafe, an escape room, and provide accommodation.
Where?: Vaxholms Gästhamn, Västerhamnen, Vaxholm
More: https://www.destinationvaxholm.se/sv/
Photos by Gerda Butkuvienė
6. Gripsholm Castle, Sweden
A king born in prison. In Grispsholm Castle, the duke couple was imprisoned for four years. In 1564 in June, Catherine Jagiellon, at the age of 38, gave birth to her daughter Izabela. In 1566 June 20 the couple's son Sigismund Vasa was born here – the future king of Sweden and the Republic of the Two Nations. In Gripsholm, Catherin and Johan had to go through one of the worst trials in their lives – the death of their daughter.
Excerpt from the book The Bride of War:
Mrs. Krupskaya washes the baby and wraps it in a sheet bought from the knechts a few days ago with the jewels from my dress. The little girl looks around calmly with her big blue eyes for a while, and then she screams so hard that no one can calm her down. I understand, she is hungry, and there is no wet-nurse around. I will have to feed her myself like some village girl, because there is simply no other option. I pray that I have even a drop of milk or my baby will die.
VISIT: The red walls of Gripsholm Castle are 500 years old. It is one of the most visited royal castles in Sweden, as it houses the oldest and largest portrait gallery in the world. It is interesting that among the 5 thousand the portrait of Sigismund the Old, Catherine Jagiellon's father, also hangs in an honorable place among the works. There is no portrait of Queen Catherine herself either in this gallery or in other royal palaces in Sweden. True, in Gripsholm Castle you can find a small painting depicting the famous scene with the wedding ring, when Catherine Jagiellon shows it to the minister of the King of Sweden.
During the high season (May to September) there are regular tours of the castle in Swedish or English. During them, you can see not only the portrait gallery, the palace theater, but also the room where Catherine and her family were imprisoned. Now known as Duke’s Charles Chamber, it is considered one of the best-preserved 16th-century buildings. Swedish interiors..
The distance from Stockholm to Gripsholm Castle in Mariafred is 70 km.
WHERE?: Gripsholms Slott, Mariefred
More: https://www.kungligaslotten.se/english/royal-palaces-and-sites/gripsholm-castle.html
Photos by Gerda Butkuvienė
7. Strängnäs Cathedral, Sweden
The grave of the beloved daughter. After becoming the rulers of Sweden, Catherine and John reburied their firstborn Isabella in Strängnäs Cathedral. The famous Flemish sculptor and architect Willem Boy created a tombstone for her at the request of her parents. This is one of the most unique children's tombstones in Sweden, distinguished by high artistic quality.
Excerpt from the book The Bride of War:
She just passed away and I can't remember the last time my daughter looked at me – last night or this morning? And what did she say to me last time? What did she eat? When was the last time she called "mom"? What if one day I forget what her voice was and what she looked like? "John," I grab my husband's hand in fright, "promise me that you will order a tombstone for her." Carved out of white stone. Such that she looks like she is alive.
GET AROUND: Located 60 km from Stockholm, the town is one of the oldest in Sweden, dating back to the 12th century. It was there in 1523. June 6 Gustav Vasa was elected king. On this day, Sweden left the Kalmar Union with Denmark and Norway and became independent, so every year on June 6. Sweden's National Day is a public holiday in the country. A symbol of the town's rich history - XIII-XIV centuries towering cathedral. It is open to visitors during the specified hours. The tombstone of Catherine Jagiellon's daughter can be seen right next to the altar, on the left side. The pearl necklace is not exposed to prevent theft.
Where?: Strängnäs cathedral, Biskopsgränd 2, Strängnäs
More: https://www. svenskakyrkan.se/strangnas/ domkyrkan
Photos by Gerda Butkuvienė
8. Svarstjö Castle, Sweden
The Mad King. In this castle, Catherine Jagiellon and Johan Vasa met the King of Swden Erik for the first time after they were released from the imprisonment in Gripsholm. Erich was suffering from an illness at the time.
Excerpt from the book The Bride of War:
"Come to me, little one," King Eric reaches out to him, but the frightened child hides behind his mother's skirt. Princess Catherine barely managed not to grab her son in her arms and run with him back to the ship.
VISIT: Although Svarstjö Castle, popular with wedding guests, glows from afar with its yellow sides and clock tower, don't get misleaded. The site of an authentic castle from the time of the Vasa dynasty is in the distance on the right - here are the remains of the 16th century. fragments of castle foundations. The castle burned down in 1687 and its bricks were used to rebuild the Royal Stockholm Castle, also destroyed by fire. The former territory of the castle can be bypassed by a path with information stands. One of them tells that by order of Catherine Jagiellon 's husband John III, a hunting park was established near the castle, to which fallow deer were transported from England. 18th century in the built Rococo castle, you can view the preserved interiors, visit a cafe, an ice cream spot.
Where?: Svarstjö slott, Svarstjövägen 2, Svarstjö
More: https://svartsjoslott.com/
Photos by Gerda Butkuvienė
9. Eskilstuna, Sweden
The birth of a daughter. In Eskilstuna in May 17, 1568 Cayherine gave birth to her third child – daughter Ann. It was a dificult birth giving, because the pincess was already 42 year old.
Excerpt from the book The Bride of War:
Faithful Dorothy and all the ladies jump around me, never leaving me alone for a moment, and keeping me from sinking into sadness and crying, fearing that my baby in the womb might choke on tears. Now only he, poor thing, saves me from a great disaster, because in Stockholm I was still stalked by the Moscow vultures.
VISIT: If you are looking for traces of the royal castle built by the order of King Gustav Vasa, you will not have to look in the city of high choirs in Eskilstuna, but visit the City Museum. The collection of ornamented lime stones exhibited here is the only direct legacy from the castle. Interestingly, one of the stone exhibits is decorated with oak leaves, a symbol of the alliance between John III and his brother Charles against King Eric. In the 16th centurythe castle, called Eskilstuna Huus, stood on what is now Klostergatan near the Kloster Church, but was destroyed by fire in 1680. The exhibition of the city museum also presents a model of the former castle, information about Princess Ann Vasa, the daughter of Catherine Jagiellon, who was born here.
Where?: Eskilstuna stadsmuseum, Faktorigatan 4C, Eskilstuna
More: https://visiteskilstuna.se/eng/visiteskilstuna.se/see--do/culture--history/eskilstuna-city-museum
Photos by Gerda Butkuvienė
10. Vadstena, Sweden
Rebel Center. in 1568 In the summer of 1875, Duke John together with his brother Karl organized a rebellion against the Swedish king Eric XIV. Vadstena was the first town captured by the rebels. Catherine supported her husbund.
Excerpt from the book The Bride of War:
"Now it would be best for us to go to Vadstena – there are many artisans there who can quickly mint coins from ingots of silver," thinks Prince Johan, and I promise that if they run out of money, I will give my jewels and pearls stripped from my dresses, as they saved our family before.
VISIT: From a defensive castle to Sweden's best-preserved royal Renaissance palace. This is the history that began in 1525, when King Gustav Vasa ordered the construction of a fortress to defend Stockholm in the south, until its reconstruction, which ended in 1620, was experienced by the quors of Vadstena. Now in the castle you can independently inspect the model of the former fortress, the preserved kitchen, and the tower. Or - book a themed excursion with a guide dressed in historical costume and immerse yourself in the life of women of the Vasa period in the 16th century or stories of feasts and night castles. One of the thematic excursions "Power and love" follows the footsteps of Johan III and his wife Catherine Jagiellon, who came to this palace in 1580. By the way, historian Eva Mattsson, the author of the Swedish biography of Catherine Jagiellon, lives in Vadstena, runs the company "Bring to Life", which organizes tours for groups in this city. The impressive royal castle of Vadstena, surrounded by a water canal, is 250 km from Stockholm. In August, during Sweden's traditional crayfish season (kräftskiva – Swedish), crayfish fishing is allowed in the castle pond. Concerts, medieval festivals, and other events are also held here.
Where?: Vadstena slott, Hamngatan 4, Vadstena
More: https://vadstenaslott.com/
Photos by Gerda Butkuvienė
11. Royal Stockholm Palace, Stockholm, Sweden
Reign. The army of the brothers Dukes Johan and Charles Vasas marched to Stockholm in September 1568. People of the city themselves opened the gates for them. After a short street battles King Eric XIV surrendered to the brothers. Catherine Jagiellon and her husband settled in the Three Crowns Castle – it was the main residence during the reign of Johan Vasa.
Excerpt from the book The Bride of War:
"Both men, groaning in pain and barely moving, couldn‘t get up from the pavement. One tries to cover a cut eyebrow with his palm, from which the blood oozes his left eye, and the other spits out two yellowed teeth, making the crowd laugh terribly.
– Envoys from Moscow, Your Excellency.
VISIT: You will not see the Three Crowns Castle in Stockholm anymore - it was consumed by a fatal fire in 1697, May 7. Royal Palace of Stockholm which was built in the 18 century is today the official residence and reception venue of the current monarch of the Kingdom of Sweden. The Baroque palace is one of the largest in Europe, with more than 600 rooms. Several museums operate in the palace spaces in Stockholm's Old Town: the Royal Apartments, the Treasury, the Arsenal, the Museum of the Three Crowns.
It is in the Museum of the Three Crowns that you can see fragments of the old castle, such as the vaults of the oldest room, whose history dates back to the 13th century. The information boards note that during the reign of Johan III, the medieval castle was transformed into an ornate Renaissance palace. In the royal apartments, the velvet canopy of the throne in the Hall of Audiences is worth noting. It is believed that the 16th century Catherine Jagiellon brought the canopy made in Italy to the Palace of the Three Crowns.
In the castle arsenal, there are more relics of the Jagiellon dynasty. In the first hall, extremely ornate horseman's armor is exhibited. This is the legacy of Sigismund Augustus, which Catherine’s sister Ann Jagiellon sent to King Johan III of Sweden wishing them to dazzle the enemies with their brilliance and expressing the hope that her nephew, Catherine’s son Sigismund, would one day wear this armor (when Sigismund Augustus died, he was only eight years old). A gold bracelet with the initials APS (Anna Principessa Sveciae) belonging to Catherine's daughter Anna can also be seen here. Educated and fluent in five languages, Princess Ona was an advisor to her brother, King Sigismund of Poland, and later a plenipotentiary in Sweden, where she was nicknamed the "toxic sister."
Where?: Kungliga slottet, Slottsbacken 1
More: https://www.kungligaslotten.se/english.html
Photos by Gerda Butkuvienė
12. Uppsala Cathedral, Sweden
Coronation. In January 1, 1569 Duke Johan was elected King of Sweden and became Johan III Vasa. On July 10 he and his wife Catherine Jagiellon were crowned kings of Sweden in Uppsala Cathedral. The whole city was decorated for the festivities, attended by many bloated guests. After the anointing in the cathedral, Johan and Catherine were presented with royal regalia. It was the first coronation in Sweden where both the king and the queen were crowned at the same time. Catherine Jagiellon was Queen of Sweden for 14 years, after her death she was buried in Uppsala Cathedral.
Excerpt from the book The Bride of War:
Here, in this holy place in Sweden, where the bones of many kings rest, wrapped in the royal mantle and feeling the weight of the newly placed crown, I grow up with this land. I feel that not only the eyes of the gathered people, but also the ghosts of the kings and queens buried here are watching every move of Johan and I.
VISIT: Uppsala Cathedral, with its impressive towers reaching into the sky, which was built in the 13th century, attracts many visitors because it is the burial place of King Gustav Vasa and his wives, as well as the king's son John III and his wives. The largest cathedral in the Nordic countries can be visited during the specified working hours.
The northern tower of the cathedral houses the Treasury (Skattkammaren), where you can view the burial regalia of kings and queens. Among them are Catherine Jagiellon's crown decorated with sapphires and pearls found in the queen's coffin, a golden scepter with amethysts, and a medallion with precious stones given to her by her parents.
Where?: Uppsala cathedral, Domkyrkoplan, 753 10 Uppsala
More: https://www.svenskakyrkan.se/uppsaladomkyrka
Photos by Gerda Butkuvienė
13. Stegeborg Castle, Sweden
Royal residence. This is one of the castles visited by Queen Catherine of Sweden during her reign. Along with her, her daughter Ann, who was very interested in botany and medicinal plants, often visited here. Mother and daughter took care of the gardens here together.
Excerpt from the book The Bride of War:
My son and daughter will be named after their father, but my blood will always flow through their veins, because I have united the old Jagiellon dynasty with the new branch of the Vass family through my marriage, body and children.
VISIT: Stegeborg Castle, 200 km south of Stockholm on the island of Lake Slätbaken, is the ruins of a 13th century castle, and the round tower is the only witness of a medieval castle. It was in Stegeborg Castle in 1537 King Gustav Vasa's son Johan III, future husband of Catherine Jagiellon, was born. After his father's death, he undertook the reconstruction of the castle into a royal residence, furnishing it with ornate furniture. Unfortunately, the 18th century the castle was abandoned and decayed. Now, when visiting the territory of the castle, you can independently admire the impressive apple garden, walk along the crumbling walls with the surviving fragments of stone coats of arms, and climb the tower.
Where?: Stegeborg slottruinen, Stegeborgs Egendom AB, Söderköping
More: https://www.stegeborg.se/slottsruinen/
The author of the photos is Gerda Butkuvienė
14. Drotningholm Castle, Sweden
A gift for the wife. Johan III Vasa and his wife Catherine are called Renaissance kings in Sweden and Finland. King Johan III of Sweden commissioned the famous Flemish architect Willem Boy to build a summer residence for Catherine – Drotningholm (In English - Queen's Island).
Excerpt from the book The Bride of War:
My son and daughter will be named after their father, but my blood will always flow through their veins, because I have united the old Jagiellon dynasty with the new branch of the Vass family through my marriage, body and children.
VISIT: Drotningholm Castle is undoubtedly the crown jewel of the royal Swedish castles, the residence of the current King and Queen of Sweden. On the example of the Palace of Versailles in the 17th century built castle with the palace theater, Chinese pavilion and royal garden is a UNESCO heritage site. Unfortunately, you will no longer see the first version of the castle dedicated to Catherine Jagiellon- it was destroyed by fire in 1661. Only at the entrance to the palace will you meet the mysterious smile of Catherine from the portrait on the information stand – her name is forever linked to the history of this castle.
The castle (with the exception of its southern wing, where the royal family resides) can be explored independently or with a guide – regular tours in Swedish and English are held daily during the season. Located 15 km from Stockholm on an island in Lake Mälaren, Drottningholm Castle is easily accessible by car, bus or boat.
Where? Drottningholm slott, Slottsstallet 11, Drottningholm
More: https://www.kungligaslotten.se/english/royal-palaces-and-sites/drottningholm-palace.html
Photos by Gerda Butkuvienė
15. Kalmar Castle, Sweden
Queen and advisor. Kalmar was one of the castles visited by the Swedish rulers Johan and Catherine during their reign. She was not only his wife and the mother of his children, but also a queen who constantly accompanied him on his travels, supported his policies and helped rebuild Swedish castles and cities in the Renaissance style.
Excerpt from the book The Bride of War:
It's enough of wars and plundering of foreign lands. Let begin the time of peace, new bountiful harvest and happy children come. Johan and I go out together as newlyweds through the tattered doors, greeted by cheering crowds. We've both been through a lot. And we will experience a lot more. Only death will separate us.
VISIT: Southern Sweden, the region closest to the border with Denmark, surprises with its abundance of castles and traces of the royal couple John and Catherine. As early as the 12th century the purpose of the raised walls of Kalmar was defense against pirates and other enemies. However, both sons of Gustav Vasa I, Eric and Johan, in the 16th century created real winds of change here and, after inviting artists from Europe, transformed the fortress into a peaceful palace. The chapel rebuilt by Johan's order, the banquet hall (Green Hall), the king's reception hall (Golden Hall) with preserved impressive ceiling decor, and the dining room (Gray Hall) that have survived to this day. However, in the latter, as noted in the castle information, Johan used to celebrate Easter with his new wife Gunila and his and Catherine's children Sigismund and Ann. Fresh salmon with raisins, eel pâté, and flounder pie are just a few dishes from Johan's menu, which can be seen at the castle. You can "meet" Catherine only in one hall with the Vasa genealogical tree. Here, her biography as a Polish princess is briefly presented, and a copy of the medallion is exhibited.
Where?: Kalmar Slott, Kungsgatan 1, Kalmar
More: https://kalmarslott.se/en/
Photos by Gerda Butkuvienė
16. Borgholm Castle, Sweden
Eternal love. This is another Swedish castle that still bears witness to the immortal love story of Catherine and Johan.
Excerpt from the book The Bride of War:
When I arrived, I bowed and saw him, Johan Vasa. I don't understand how those ice-colored eyes can be so glaring? No one has ever looked at me like that. I feel a bit confused, my face is starting to burn. As I dance, my hands warm from his palms like the neck of my most beloved horse as I caress him before riding off, trying to feel every hair and twitch of muscle, relishing in advance how soon we will both escape from the confines of palace life and all-seeing eyes.
VISIT: The ruins of this castle on the island of Öland, the second largest in Sweden, can safely be called the place where everyone is greeted by the biggest view of Catherine Jagiellon in all of Sweden. In the canvas across the entire wall, Catherine, next to her husband Johan, is like a real mistress of historical walls and the queen of hearts. More precisely, the queen of John's heart. The exhibition pays a lot of attention to their love story. "Catherine was the reason why this fortress was rebuilt," the exposition states. It is interesting that the castle should become as a widow's legacy for Catherine after Johan's death.
12th century Borgholm, like Kalmar, was a medieval fortress needed to fight pirates. In XIV-XV centuries it was one of Sweden's most important military bases. In 1572 on the order of Johan, reconstructions were started here in order to maintain the medieval character, but to give the masonry a Renaissance look. This is how wooden and stone floors, brick ovens, tapestries on the walls appeared in the castle. The descriptions emphasize that Catherine was responsible both for the interior of this and other castles reconstructed by her husband. Her choices are said to have been influenced by the Italian Renaissance, where her mother is from, and her own childhood in Poland.
Unfortunately, the 19th century Borgholm was ravaged by fire at the beginning. Therefore, in the remains of the ruins of Catherine's apartment with a fireplace, one can only imagine how she was located here and what dresses she used to wear in the long corridors.
Where?: Borgholms Slott, Sollidenvägen 5, Borgholm, Öland
More: https://www.borgholmsslott.se/en/
Photos by Gerda Butkuvienė
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Historical sources:
Lithuania–Poland–Sweden: European dynastic connections and historical-cultural connections. Studies of the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, Volume XXI. National Museum Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, Vilnius, 2014.
Duczmal Małgorzata, Jagellonians, Science and Encyclopedia Publishing House, Vilnius, 2012.
https://www.sim1.se/swe/mal/strang/strang_01.html
Saar-Kozłowska, Alicja Joanna, Infantka Szwecji i Polski Anna Wazówna, 1568-1625, Torún: Uniwersytet M. Kopernika w Toruniu, 1995.