Bohus Fortress in Gothenburg

A brief history of Bohus Fortress

The fortress, which is largely a ruin today, first began to take shape in 1308 under the reign of King Haakon V of Norway. Throughout the 15th century, the castle was a safe refuge for Danes and Norwegians who sought protection from the Swedish commander Tord Karlsson and there were many attempts to storm the fortress in the 16th century. After so many attacks, the castle was in poor condition, so a number of repairs and extensions were made at the turn of the 17th century. Following the Treaty of Roskilde in 1658, the fortress became Swedish and in the latter half of the 18th century it was left to ruin. Besides being used for defence purposes, the fortress was also used as a prison up until the 19th century. Restoration and excavation works commenced at the beginning of the 20th century and still continue today.

What are the highlights of Bohus Fortress?

The best way to learn more about both the fortress and the people associated with it is on one of the fortress' guided tours which are suitable for visitors of all ages. Access to the Bohus Fortress app is included in the entrance price and the app contains a self-guided tour along the imposing walls and into the creepy prison dungeons. There are a great deal of exciting activities on offer at the fortress as well, such as archery, jousting, wooden horses on rails, raft rides and various other games. In the dungeons you can find out for yourself what it must have been like to be locked into a medieval pillory.

Good to know about Bohus Fortress

The fortress is easy to reach both by public transport and by car. If you're going by bus, hop off at the Eriksdal Stop or if you're travelling down in your rental car, take the E6 or the E45 and simply follow the brown signs to Bohus Fortress.