The castle fire that erased much of Sweden's history
On May 7, 1697, a fire at Tre Kronor castle destroyed Sweden's national library and archives, erasing irreplaceable historical records.
On May 7, 1697, a fire broke out at Tre Kronor castle in Sweden. The flames started in the attic and quickly spread throughout the building, consuming the entire structure.
The royal family escapes
Charles XII and his family managed to escape the blaze safely. Workers also succeeded in saving royal valuables from the burning castle.
Irreplaceable loss
Sweden's national library and archives were housed in the castle. Both burned along with the building, erasing much of the country's documented history. The loss of these records represented an irreparable gap in Sweden's historical record.
Aftermath and accountability
Three firemen were convicted for failing to save the castle. Their conviction reflected the magnitude of the disaster and the desperate search for accountability after such a catastrophic loss to the nation's heritage.
