Discover the well-preserved ruins of a medieval castle, visit Finland's oldest prison museum, and experience an Åland farmstead from the past.
Kastelholm Castle had its heyday during the 16th-century, when Åland was a Swedish castle county under king Gustav Vasa and his sons’ rule. The castle served as the administrative centre of the region for several centuries, hosting royalty and noble visitors alike. Children can step into the castle’s history by trying on period costumes – be it dressing as a princess or as a knight in real chain mail!
Discover the darker side of the castle as well, by learning about the women who were imprisoned there during the largest witchcraft trial in Finnish history. All these stories are brought to life by the castle's staff and guides who take you on a journey through the castle's unique history.
Farm life and prison history
Next to the castle you can explore everyday life on a 19th century farmstead at Jan Karlsgården's open-air museum. On Wednesdays in July the museum hosts craftsmanship days, where local craftsmen hold demonstrations on rope making, blacksmithing or butter churning. Kids will love the hands-on crafts and baking sessions that bring history to life.
The White Bear Prison Museum offers an insightful look into the evolution of punishment and prison life, from the harsh spittoon to the more humane facilities of today.
