 It was built as a medieval fortress to protect its owners, in much the same way as several medieval castles in other parts of Europe.The first attested owner of Göksholm's castle was Lady Ingeborg Ulfsdotter (mentioned 1296, died before 1307), of the family of Ulv (a cadet branch of the earl dynasty that later became known as the Folkunge royal line, or House of Bjellbo).