ABOUT US
OUR HISTORY
A celebration of the grandeur of neo-Renaissance architectur
On one of Gothenburg’s most prestigious addresses, at the corner of Södra Vägen and Nya Allén, stands the magnificent Dickson Palace. This grand three-story building in Florentine Neo-Renaissance style was erected in 1862 by Baron Oscar Dickson, a successful businessman who built his fortune on the forests and sawmills of northern Sweden. Together with his wife, Marika von Rosen—a Greek princess—he envisioned a home that would reflect their high status and refined taste.
To bring this vision to life, Oscar commissioned the English architect William Allen Boulnois, who had previously designed Överås for Oscar’s brother, James Dickson. Construction began in 1859 under the supervision of master builder Philip Jacob Rapp and was completed three years later. The result was a palatial residence spanning 928 square meters, with over 30 rooms, where materials and craftsmanship were imported from England.
A TIMELESS INTERIOR OF LUXURY AND DETAIL
The interior was nothing short of extraordinary. At its heart lay a grand staircase hall that spanned all three floors of the house, surrounded by salons and rooms of exceptional elegance. The grand salon was the pinnacle of luxury, adorned with stucco reliefs by the Italian artist Bellini and a cedarwood floor from Lebanon, arranged in a star pattern. Enormous wall mirrors, crystal chandeliers, gilded cornices, and draped English curtains completed the magnificent decor.
A SCHOOL IN SERVICE OF THE PALACE
Following Oscar Dickson’s death in 1897, the palace became Marika’s residence until her passing in 1917. Their son, Osborn, took over afterward, but with his death in 1921, the Dickson family’s chapter in the palace’s history came to an end. In 1923, the building found a new purpose when Hanna Lindmark purchased the property to establish Margaretaskolan, a prestigious household school. Renowned for its high standards, the school offered two- to three-month courses, attracting young women eager to master the art of domestic management.
The ground floor was used for dining services, while the third floor, formerly housing servants’ quarters, was converted into small hotel rooms. Beyond the household school, the building also accommodated a restaurant, banquet halls, a café, a bakery, rental rooms, and a shop located in the old stable behind the main structure. Margaretaskolan became a hub of both education and social life, with a dinner at the restaurant priced at around 1.25 kronor—a reflection of its quality and exclusivity.
The school closed in the mid-1940s due to wartime rationing, though the restaurant business continued until 1968.
A HOME TO ROYAL VISITS AND HISTORIC GUESTS
Throughout its history, the Dickson Palace has hosted numerous prominent guests, including King Oscar II and the polar explorer Adolf Erik Nordenskiöld, whose expeditions were partly funded by Oscar Dickson. King Charles XV also visited the palace and, according to notes from his court marshal, was visibly irritated by the excessive luxury—particularly the modern water closets, a rarity at the time.
AN ENDURING PART OF GOTHENBURG’S CULTURAL HERITAGE AND EXCLUSIVE EVENTS
On April 4, 1968, Gothenburg’s City Council purchased the building from Fastighets AB Göta Lejon for 2.1 million kronor and initiated an extensive restoration the following year. By 1970, the city had fully acquired the property, which is now managed by Higab. Over the years, the building has served various purposes, including housing the tourist office and offices for Stora Teatern.
Today, the Dickson Palace stands as a symbol of Gothenburg’s rich history and architectural grandeur. Designated a listed building in 1973, it has undergone careful renovations to meet modern needs. Now, the palace is used as a venue for official functions, civil weddings, and exclusive events, once again bringing its halls to life with laughter, celebration, and festivity. A masterpiece of 19th-century architecture, the palace bridges its storied past with its role as a vibrant part of the city’s cultural heritage.
Palais de l’Élégance
COME AND EXPERIENCE THE HISTORY
Step into a setting where timeless charm meets modern refinement. Beneath glittering chandeliers and soaring ceilings, this venue transforms every occasion into an unforgettable experience. Whether celebrating life’s milestones or hosting elegant soirées, this palace offers a stage where history and grandeur come to life.
Palais de l’Élégance
COME AND EXPERIENCE THE HISTORY
Step into a setting where timeless charm meets modern refinement. Beneath glittering chandeliers and soaring ceilings, this venue transforms every occasion into an unforgettable experience. Whether celebrating life’s milestones or hosting elegant soirées, this palace offers a stage where history and grandeur come to life.
