Castle Sign: Our first stop on Oland was the magnificent castle ruin called Borgholms Slott.

Borgholm Slott: A "slott" is a castle. This is the ruins of a magnificent kingdom stronghold turned castle that was in use from the 12th century through 1772.

Borgholm Slott Model: This is what the castle probably looked like in 1709. It was designed for King Karl Gustav X, after it suffered severe damage in the Kalmar Wars of 1611-1613.

Spiral Stairway: Many of these spiral stairways led down into small prisons. The Royal Castle of Borgholm was one of the most important strongholds in the Kingdom. During the whole of the middle Ages up to the 17th century, it was the scene of battles and sieges, of destruction and reconstruction.

My hosts for this island tour: Amanda's Aunt Kerstin, Olle, Cousin Martin, Ulla Britt, Amanda, and Jonathan gave me a wonderful tour of this castle ruin.

Arch Upon Arch: Doorway upon doorway, window upon window, room upon room...Between 1572 and 1592 an architect was hired to transform the old stronghold into a magnificent renaissance castle. Large towers were erected, as were magnificent state apartments, with large windows on both floors.

Three Stories High: I wonder how many people lived in this castle. There must have been hundreds of rooms.

Massive towers: This castle was so huge, and every view was awe inspiring. To think that some of these stones may date back to the original buildings from the 12th century is amazing.

Laurie at castle: I was standing next to a tower that overlooked the waters surrounding Oland. This part of the castle probably dates back to the late 1500s.

The castle today: The castle is currently used for many functions, such as concerts. A stage was being set up in the center of the castle as we wandered through it.