Discover Millesgården
Discover Millesgården – a place where art, history, and nature come together, just a short trip from central Stockholm. Created by the world-renowned sculptor Carl Milles and his wife, the artist Olga Milles, Millesgården offers a unique environment with a sculpture park, artist’s home, and a gallery hosting temporary exhibitions.
History
In 1907, Carl and Olga Milles purchased a plot on Herserudsklippan, high above Värtan on Lidingö. Their vision was to build a home with adjoining studios. The house was designed by architect Carl M. Bengtsson and completed in 1908. Over the next fifty years, Millesgården was expanded and developed in collaboration with Carl’s half-brother, architect Evert Milles.
From 1911 to 1913, the first extension was built: an open-air studio in the form of a loggia, designed to improve Carl’s working conditions after he suffered from severe silicosis. During the 1920s, as commissions for his sculptures increased, adjacent land was acquired. The middle terrace was created, the sculpture garden expanded, and an additional studio, the “Small Studio,” was built.
The Milles couple lived in the USA from 1931 to 1950, while Carl worked at Cranbrook University. Construction at Millesgården slowed during this period, but Evert Milles prepared new plans in anticipation of future expansions. In 1936, Millesgården was established as a foundation and presented as a gift to the Swedish people.
Upon returning to Europe in 1950, work began on the Lower Terrace, featuring monumental replicas of freestanding sculptures and fountain groups from the USA and Sweden. The couple moved into Anne’s House, designed by Evert Milles with interiors by Estrid Ericson and Josef Frank for Svenskt Tenn. The terrace and house were largely completed by the time of Carl Milles’ passing on September 19, 1955.
Millesgården Today
Millesgården Museum is an independent, non-profit art institution. Its operations are funded through ticket sales, sculpture sales, and support from the state and local authorities. The Carl and Olga Milles Lidingöhem Foundation is responsible for preserving, exhibiting, and maintaining Millesgården and its collections. Philanthropic donations and support from companies, foundations, and private individuals also help bring Millesgården to life through temporary exhibitions.
Visiting Millesgården
At Millesgården, you can:
- Stroll through the lush terraces adorned with Carl Milles’ impressive sculptures and fountains, enjoying views of Stockholm’s archipelago.
- Explore the artist’s home with its beautiful interiors and studios.
- Visit Anne’s House, designed by Estrid Ericson and Josef Frank for Svenskt Tenn.
- Enjoy temporary exhibitions in the gallery.
- Browse the museum shop and relax at the café and restaurant.
Millesgården is the perfect destination for a day trip or a cultural break.
Welcome to experience and enjoy art, nature, and history at Millesgården – all year round!