Kingdom of Sweden Days at Narva Castle
Event overview
In 1585, the Swedish Crown granted Narva city rights — a decision that changed the city's destiny and ushered in the “Golden Swedish Era” in the 17th century. Narva Museum brings this legacy to life on July 19–20, when the Swedish Kingdom Days take place at Narva Castle for the whole family.
The “Golden Swedish Era” continues to fascinate historians and scholars today. It was a time when Narva was known as a major trading city, contested by the great powers of Europe. During this brilliant Swedish period, Narva gained its unique appearance and special atmosphere, which remained largely unchanged until World War II.
Programme
Saturday, 19 July
- Narva Castle will offer a historical journey that engages all the senses.
- From 10:00 to 17:00, visitors with a family ticket can take part in an exciting castle-wide quest, where tasks turn children (and parents) into curious explorers — a game where no one loses.
- Those seeking a deeper understanding of the city’s identity can join curator-led tours of the exhibition “Symbols on the Edge” at 12:00 in Estonian and 14:00 in Russian.
- In the afternoon, the Northern Courtyard will transform into a stage for the golden age. From 12:30 to 16:00, historical costume theatre, dancing, and music will take over. Artist Nata Gallo will offer guests free quick caricatures with her friendly pencil.
- From 13:00 to 15:00, children can make their own crowns and paint ceramics — each workshop costs a symbolic 1 euro.
- History will come alive in a unique theatrical performance at 14:00 and 16:00. In the Northern Courtyard, 17th-century traveler Adam Olearius and the mythical Duck-Bird — guardian of legends and symbol of the city’s deep connection to its past and nature — will guide the audience through Narva’s ancient and mystical history: a world of trade, treasures, burned witches, and knights beneath the stones. It’s a story of Narva — a bridge through time, the voice of the river, and the soul of the castle.
- The secrets of 16th–17th century Swedish cuisine will be revealed in a culinary masterclass by Eva Poonsh: quick-pickled herring, rye flatbread cooked on a griddle, rice pudding risalamande, and lingonberry sauce to accompany legendary meatballs — flavors from a time when salt was precious and fish a daily treasure.
- The day will also feature a baroque concert: Latvian violinist Anna Salnit and Estonian cellist Tatiana Gashimova will perform dance sonatas by Corelli, Couperin, and other 17th-century composers.
The highlight of the open-air evening will be the walking tour “Swedish Narva”, starting at 16:00, taking guests through the traces of the Swedish period in the Old Town.
E-ticket
Sunday, 20 July
- 14:00 Free highlights tour of the entire castle with any museum admission ticket (meeting point: museum shop. RUS/EST)
- 16:00 Free courtyard tour (Western and Northern Courtyards) focusing on the Swedish periood (RUS/EST)
Register for the 16:00 tour in Russian or Estonian
On the same day, the museum will also offer scheduled tours:
- 12:00 – Kreenholm: History of the Textile Giant
- 15:00 – Kristervall: From Bastion to Bastion – History of Fortification (in Estonian)
- 16:00 – the same fortification tour in Russian
Tickets available on Fienta.
Two days full of history, theatre, music, and flavors promise a memorable experience for both visitors and locals. The Swedish Kingdom Days bring the past to life — here and now. We look forward to welcoming you to enjoy some of the most fascinating moments in Estonian history, accompanied by the long-awaited Estonian summer!
Special thanks to the Estonian Cultural Endowment for their support.
We look forward to welcoming you to Narva Castle!
