Helliden Castle

Helliden Castle, on the western slope of Mount Helliden, with view over the town Tidaholm, was built by Hans Henrik von Essen in 1858 as a manor. Baron von Essen has done with great energy Tidaholm to an urban and industrial center. He modernized the ironworks and the timber industry. 1860 Hans Henrik von Essen founded the Vulcans matchstick factory, which has become the largest of its kind. After his death, inherited by his son Alfred von Essen possession. He married the daughter Ella of businessman Robert Dickson. Alfred von Essen rebuilt the castle, designed by the architect Helgo Zettervall.

After several financial setbacks Alfred von Essen was bankrupt. Alfred died shortly afterwards. The whole property was sold. Alfred's wife, Baroness Ella von Essen lived until his death in 1950 in the castle. Thereafter in the castle is a high school was established.