Photo. A wonderful view from Fredriksten Fortress on a top of a hill in Halden, Norway. © Travel Explorations.
Some of the most dramatic events in Norwegian military history took place at the fortress of Fredriksten. The fortress has been attacked many times through history, but never conquered. Inside the fortress there is a museum where you can get insight in all the battles, and view see some of the lining of the hat belonging to Charles XII, the famous Swedish king who was shot at Fredriksten Fortress in 1718.
One of the photos I took of Fredriksten fortress is from the city's harbor. Here I got a wonderful view of the snow white national monument. For watching more photos of the fortress, click here for Travel Explorations` photo album on Facebook: Fredriksten Fortress.
The construction of permanent fortifications for Fredriksten was started in 1661, and the fortress held a prominent position in the national defences between 1660 and 1814. In the period 1814 to 1905, when Norway was in a union with Sweden, the importance and purpose of the fortress was unclear. Following the dissolution of the union in 1905 the fortress was abandoned and demilitarised, and it was decided that the fortress should be preserved as a national monument.
After 1905 the fortress lost all military significance, but it still hosted various units. As of today the Norwegian defence logistics and administrative college is situated by the fortress. The fortress also hosts several museums and art exhibitions. During the summer season outdoor concerts are arranged with both classic and contemporary music.
Stein Morten Lund, 24th February 2013
Addtional information
Read the full story of Fredriksten Fortress on Wikipedia.
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