Akershus Fortress

“King Håkon V Magnusson of Norway (1270-1319) built the impressive Akershus Fortress in 1299 to protect the capital city of Oslo and as a defense against enemies such as Sweden. The strength of the fortress allowed it to resist a great number of sieges. However, in 1624, when an enormous fire raged through Oslo, Akershus was burned to the ground. It was rebuilt soon after by King Christian IV, who redesigned it in the Renaissance style. Once again, the fortress held out against frequent attacks. It was never successfully captured by a foreign enemy, but in 1940 it was surrendered without a struggle to the Germans. When World War II ended in 1945, the castle returned to Norwegian hands and was used to imprison and execute traitors and those who had committed war crimes. Vidkun Quisling, the leading fascist sympathizer, who ruled Norway on behalf of the Nazis, was among those executed at the site.

Alershus's resilience as a fortress was a result of King Håkon's foresight in placing it above the docks of Oslo, facing toward the Oslo fjord. Its proximity to the water meant that the Norwegian army was in a strong position to defend against naval assaults. This was a vital advantage, considering that the majority of Norwegian commerce was conducted by sea. Today the might fortress draws many visitors, as well as offering picturesque views across the city to those who walk in its grounds and surrounding park area.

Akershus has not been used solely as a fortress during its lifetime. It has also been occupied as a royal residence and used as a hiding place for royalty and government ministers, as well as a site of National Assemblies, an administrative and educational center, and a venue for cultural performances. The castle's multifaceted history makes it an ideal location for the present museum, which encapsulates the rich and complex history of Oslo.”