Akershus Fortress

The Akershus Fortress, in Oslo

The Akershus Fortress is the medieval castle that watches over the Oslo fjord since the Middle Ages. The Oslo audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this major monument, a witness of the military and royal history of Norway.

The medieval castle that watches over the fjord

The Akershus Fortress is one of the most important monuments of Oslo and Norway. Built at the end of the thirteenth century to protect the town, it resisted numerous sieges and was transformed over the centuries into a Renaissance-style royal castle. Dominating the fjord from its strategic position, it served in turn as a fortress, a royal residence and a prison. Today, its ramparts, its towers, its castle and its courtyards can be visited and offer fine views over the port and the town. A place of memory of the national history, the Akershus Fortress remains an active military site and a high place of Norwegian heritage.

What to see

Here you discover the ramparts, the towers, the Renaissance castle and the courtyards of this medieval fortress dominating the fjord, which served as a royal castle and a prison, with fine views over the port. The Akershus Fortress is a major monument of Oslo. It is a must-see stop, to be explored on foot.

Practical information

The Akershus Fortress lies on the heights dominating the Oslo fjord, near the Kvadraturen district, reachable on foot. The ramparts and the enclosure are partly freely accessible; the castle and the museums follow their own hours, which vary. It is best to check the arrangements before coming.

What is the history of the Akershus Fortress in Oslo?

Built at the end of the thirteenth century to protect the town, it resisted numerous sieges, was transformed into a Renaissance royal castle and also served as a prison; it dominates the fjord from its strategic position.

Where is the Akershus Fortress?

On the heights dominating the Oslo fjord, in Norway.