Great Power Era

Join us on a chronological journey of Tallinn through the 13th-19th centuries at some of the city's most enchanting landmarks.

In 1623, the field marshal Herman Wrangel commissioned life-sized portraits of his officers, which adorn the walls of the magnificent baroque castle Skokloster. But how did they get there?

Contrary to his image as a steadfast captain, this chapter of Jöran Polman's story catches him red-handed in a drunken brawl.

Jöran Polman served with diligence, and was one of twenty soldiers whose portrait adorns the walls of Skokloster Castle. Explore the story of his portrait and the intricate fashion details of the seventeenth century during Sweden's Great Power era.

For over 50 years, this 17th-century portrait of the family patriarch has remained hidden — until now. Polmanarkivet unearthed this important artwork and invites you to explore its origins and the story of how it was rediscovered.

Explore the dramatic saga of Sweden, from the Viking Age and the rise of empires to bloody unions and cultural revolutions.

Teleport to the 17th and 18th centuries and tour the Swedish capital through the eyes of the Polmans and Påhlmans, who mingled with royalty at some of the city’s most influential and historic locations.

In the early 17th century, an agitated Jürgen Polman penned a desperate letter to Axel Oxenstierna, the Lord High Chancellor of Sweden, appealing to him and the King for help in a matter regarding his land in Finland.