Torpa stenhus

About the museum

Torpa stenhus (Torpa Stone House) by Lake Åsunden in Västergötland began to be built around 1470 by the Councillor of the Realm (riksrådet) Arvid Knutsson. The fortress was both a defensive and a trading establishment and a residence for the owner and his family, and it was built in troubled times, with threats from Danish troops and recurring peasant uprisings. Wealthy burghers had economic interests in the trade along the rivers Ätran and Viskan.

In the 16th century the house was rebuilt and extended. First the stair tower was added, then the southern section, and the extension was completed around 1550. At that time Gustav Olofsson Stenbock, father-in-law and brother-in-law of Gustav Vasa, lived here. With its distinctive architecture and beautiful interiors, Torpa stenhus is counted among Sweden's best-preserved medieval castles.

The estate is privately owned and, according to the owner, has been in the same family's possession since the late 15th century. During the summer season the castle is open for guided tours and exhibitions. Visitors can see woodcarving, Renaissance paintings, old portraits and wall hangings, and on the site there is a castle shop, a café and restaurant, and activities for children. Torpa also has a 17th-century church, which is used for weddings.

Highlights

• Guided tours every full hour during the season
• The best-preserved medieval castle in Västergötland
• Woodcarving, Renaissance paintings and wall hangings
• Barnens Torpa (Torpa for Children) with knights' games
• Castle café and restaurant
• Medieval days and Christmas market

Permanent exhibition

• Guidad visning av slottet – Tour through the castle's halls with woodcarving, Renaissance paintings, portraits and wall hangings.

Admission & discounts

The Kulturarvskort (Cultural Heritage Card) gives a 50 percent discount (regular tours only). At the entrance desk only cash and Swish are accepted; card payment for tickets is at Torpa slottscafé & restaurang.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible: not available
• Elevator: not available
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome: no information
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

Torpa stenhus is a medieval building with many stairs and level changes and may be difficult to reach for people with reduced mobility or visual impairment. Information is available in the Tillgänglighetsdatabasen (accessibility database).

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Family tours & workshops
• Activity booklet, scavenger hunt or kids’ audio guide
• Hands-on stations

Barnens Torpa offers, among other things, archery, a trebuchet in the moat, a wooden jousting horse and pony rides; children can dress up as knights and princesses in medieval clothing, with wooden swords and shields.

Getting there & parking

Torpa stenhus lies by Lake Åsunden, about 25 minutes from Borås and an hour by car from Gothenburg.

Amenities & dining

• Café
• Restaurant
• Museum shop

Torpa slottscafé & restaurang (coffee, pastries, lunch and festive dinners), castle shop with local crafts, farm shop and craft stall.

Events & venue rental

• Spaces for rent
• Private parties
• Corporate events
• Weddings / ceremonies

Conferences in the castle's halls or in freestanding houses in the garden, weddings and parties, and accommodation.

Plan your visit