Varberg Fortress, Varberg, Sweden

Varberg Fortress was built in 1287-1300 by count Jacob Nielsen as protection against his Danish king, who had declared him an outlaw after the murder of King Eric V of Denmark. Jacob had close connections with king Eric II of Norway and as a result got substantial Norwegian assistance with the construction. The fortress, as well as half the county, became Norwegian in 1305.

King Eric's grand daughter, Ingeborg Håkansdotter, inherited the area from her father, King Haakon V of Norway. She and her husband, Eric, Duke of Södermanland, established a semi-independent state out of their Norwegian, Swedish and Danish counties until the death of Erik. They spent considerable time at the fortress. Their son, King Magnus IV of Sweden (Magnus VII of Norway), spent much time at the fortress as well.

The fortress was augmented during the late 16th and early 17th century on order by King Christian IV of Denmark. However, after the Treaty of Brömsebro in 1645 the fortress became Swedish. It was used as a military installation until 1830 and as a prison from the end of the 17th Century until 1931.

It is currently used as a museum and bed and breakfast as well as private accommodation. The moat of the fortress is said to be inhabited by a small lake monster. In August 2006, a couple of witnesses claimed to have seen the monster emerge from the dark water and devour a duck. The creature is described as brown, hairless and with a 40 cm long tail.

References:

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User Reviews

Katya Maiser (7 months ago)
Very interesting small historical fortress with an engaging museum for kids and adults. Visiting from the USA, and with little Swedish language skill, it was nice that some of the museum offered both languages on the signs. We happened to visit here during the Renaissance festival and it was so fun. A walk around the outside portion of the fortress was especially fun for kids as there is a big playground area.

Abb Cheshme (9 months ago)
Varberg Festung, or Varberg Fortress in other words, is a historic castle in the town of Varberg, about 60 km south of Gothenburg in Sweden. The castle dates back to the late 13th century and has served as a defensive fortress, prison, and now as a popular tourist attraction over the centuries. This castle offers beautiful views of the surrounding area and the nearby sea, and visitors can see all the common features of such buildings, including the moats around the castle, which are full of water and the first defensive barrier against enemy attacks. In the next stage, the high walls around the castle are responsible for deterrence and above them you can see the defensive weapons that were used to ward off the enemy's attack. It has been reviewed by residents and soldiers. Another characteristic of the castle is the water pit in the yard, which seems to have been used to store water, so as a visitor, you can review the historical information and your experiences here and explain it well to your children and take photos. Take a good and memorable view of the Kattegat sea in the west of the castle and you can also get to know more by booking a tour guide in the castle. There is also a museum where you can visit and enjoy the wide view around the castle that also overlooks the city.

Ajay Kumar (2 years ago)
Varberg Fortress is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, or stunning views. The fortress is also home to several restaurants and cafes, making it a great place to stop for a meal or a drink. It is a well-maintained and fascinating attraction that is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.

Vijay Raghavendran (2 years ago)
Going on a weekday to the fortress was relaxing without the Easter/holiday crowd. The museum app is available in English and some of the exhibitions had English texts. The museum cafe Langan offer simple homemade food with excellent service. The promenade by the sea was superb. On the whole it was an excellent day with plenty of Sun albeit with cold weather.

Kathryn Carlisle (3 years ago)
This olis a great location. Nice inside museum, plus a cafe and very clean toilets. The views are magnificent. There are so many internal buildings within the keep. The cannons occupy one whole side. People can walk entirely within the Fort, throughout the external Fort grounds, or walk the entire way around the Fort. Nearby their is car parking and not too long of a walk to the Fort. From the top of the Fort you gain a wonderful view over Varberg, the township and small harbour.

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