Rosenkrantz Tower

You’ve now arrived at the Bergenhus Fortress site, the historic heart of Bergen. Entry to the fortress grounds is free, but some specific buildings require a ticket. In the Middle Ages, the fortress was nicknamed “the islet” because it was almost entirely surrounded by water. Back then, the area you’re standing in included the royal residence, a cathedral, several churches, the bishop’s house, and a Dominican monastery. Bergen was the capital of Norway until 1299, and this fortress was the seat of royal power. Excavations have uncovered foundations dating back to the 11th century, possibly from the reign of Olaf III, known as Olaf the Quiet, a peaceful ruler focused on trade, and the founder of Bergen. The Rosenkrantz Tower in front of you was built in 1270 and expanded several times to reflect the city’s growing power. It once formed the keep of King Magnus Lagabøte’s castle and later became Erik Magnusson’s residence, the last king to rule from Bergen. His reign marked the beginning of the end of Norway’s independence. The tower gets its name from Erik Rosenkrantz, a Danish nobleman sent here in the 1500s to strengthen the fortress and symbolise Denmark’s growing control over Norway, a union that would last over 400 years. The tower was rebuilt in the Renaissance style of the time and is considered a masterpiece of Norwegian Renaissance architecture. From then on, Danish officials lived and worked here, acting as representatives of the Danish crown and enforcing its authority in Norway. Inside the tower, you’ll find a dungeon, living quarters, and cannon emplacements at the top. Later, it was used as a gunpowder magazine, and suffered damage during the 1944 cargo ship explosion in the harbour. Fortunately, it was restored and opened to the public in 1966. Today, you can visit the tower, and with a ticket, you’ll get access to several exhibitions and enjoy sweeping views from the top.