Läckö Slott and Lidköping

We headed out from our apartment on Sunday morning to drive to this destination:  the castle named as the "most beautiful in Sweden" - Lacko Slott.
 But, first, lucky timing on the way allowed us to step inside this church for a bit of the Sunday service at
Skara Cathedral.

 This church dates to the 11th century, the 13th century for its Gothic style and the 1760s after a new facade was added to the southern side, and the 1800s for yet another restoration.



During the actual service, it's not good to take pictures.  I snuck one shot as we were on our way out.

 The music was inspiring and ethereal.

Onward and forward!

 This castle is our destination. It is surrounded by water on three sides and is situated on the shores
of Lake Vanern.
Our first view did not disappoint!

I know I've said it before but wow. Wow. Wow.


 Originally built in the 13th century by a Bishop (Brynolf Agotsson), this beauty changed hands a few times.  Magnus de la Gardie remodeled it in the 17th century, gave it to his son and then had it taken away in 1681 by Karl XI.  There are over 200 rooms in this castle.
We saw only a few of the rooms, but what we saw was memorable.  Having a tour guide give a tour in English was yet another big plus.



Paintings and sculpture in the chapel.
Chamber - painting of battle victory
Opposite side in chamber
Closeup of door exiting chamber - great painting detail.
Ceiling detail from the "peace" chamber.  See the dove?
Yet another wall painting - original to castle and not "retouched' as the others.
This embellishment detail from a very large painting of Princess Marie enthralled me.
Look at the view she had from her window!
A view of the ceiling paintings in the castle dining room.
The view was spectacular outside, too.

Outdoor garden

Following our castle visit, we went to Spiken for lunch at the harbor.


And then back to the city of Lidkoping for one last, lovely visit on a Sunday afternoon.


Beauty overload!

 

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