Turku Castle is very popular today. After all, this is one of the most remarkable places in Finland. This historical monument has another name - Abo Castle. Now within its walls are a hotel and a historical museum. However, most often travelers are attracted to the castle by jousting tournaments, which are interesting to everyone without exception.
Historical reference
The fortress was erected in 1280. At first, the Turku Citadel was built like a military fort. Under the Duke of Juhan, Turku turned into an exquisite Renaissance castle. Scholars and historians who have explored the castle believe that the construction of the castle was based on samples from Gotland. The building material was gray granite, and later brick.
Turku fortress was intended for military and defensive purposes, however, in the Middle Ages the castle was also the most important administrative center, where the king of Sweden often stayed while staying in Finland.
In 1303, one of the sons of Magnus Ladulos, Waldemar, became the duke of Finland. He was very interested in his estate and Abo Castle was quickly turned from a camp into a powerful fortification area to protect the interests of Sweden. Such an interesting state of affairs automatically transferred the capital of Finland to the trading city of Turku with all related trade privileges. The prosperity of the castle territory continued throughout the XIV and XV centuries. However, Abo Castle has repeatedly become the site of political clashes between Denmark and Sweden, and the peak of these turmoil was the invasion of Danish troops in the city in 1509, during which the majority of noble citizens were killed and the rest taken prisoner.
After the 16th century, the Abo Castle (Turku) began to gradually decline. By the 18th century, Turku Castle was used mainly as a storehouse and provincial prison. Then, the arsenal of the Swedish army began to be located in the castle, and even later there was the barracks of the Swedish royal skerry flotilla.
At the end of the century before last, the historical museum of the city of Turku began to work in the castle.
Over the long period of existence, this historical monument has experienced rapid prosperity and destruction. The entire castle was especially badly damaged during the Second World War.
Today, the castle in Turku is considered one of the largest and most significant museums in Finland.
About the castle
The fortress can be divided into two architectural complexes - farm buildings and the castle itself. The historical museum is located in the outbuildings. I must say that the museum occupies a considerable territory - a whole block. Buildings and constructions allow you to recreate the historical appearance of the city. There are also interesting workshops where you can go at any time.
Turku Castle or Abo Castle in Finland is open to visitors and visitors every day except Mondays.
For children
Abo Castle (Finland) attracts not only with its amazing color, but also because it often hosts various interesting events. Travelers who come with children should visit programs specially designed for small tourists. For example, it can be the Marine Center Forum Marinum, where a unique collection of real ships and layouts is presented. A big plus is that children under 7 years old can attend such an exhibition for free.
Knight Tournament
These jousting tournaments in Turku are held in the summer at the weekend. Knight battles take place in the park under the walls of the city castle. The event finale falls on Sunday. The atmosphere of the tournament allows you to plunge into medieval times. Visitors will be able to learn a lot of interesting things about knightly traditions from lectures. In addition, the square has a rich medieval fair.
Additional Information
Currently, in addition to visiting the museum, which presents magnificent exhibitions, you can also rent medieval halls for celebrations. Wedding banquets are often held here.
For visitors there is a medieval-style restaurant "Duke Johan's Basement" and the Fatabur Museum-Shop.
By the way, a book of children's Scandinavian fairy tales entitled “The Old House of Abo Castle” is also associated with the castle of the same name.