Akershus Castle | Things You Need To Know

Akershus Castle is a fortress in Oslo, Norway that still remains a primarily military structure. However, it is also a burgeoning tourist attraction.

It is a testament to the historical power of ports that some of the best sights in old towns and cities sprung up around them. The port is a source and symbol of both commercial and political power, and even today we see the prestige attached to them.

I got another taste of this when our ship docked on Oslo, Norway’s capital. Right across from where our ship was berthed is the famed Akershus Castle, a fortress that was built in medieval times to protect the city’s royal residences. Throughout its lifetime, it has been used for various functions — as a government office, a military base, and even as a prison.

The thick walls of the fortress were first built towards the end of the 1200s. The imposing structure was created with military applications in mind. It was said that the castle was built in response to attacks from a Norwegian nobleman, who raided Oslo and made light of its existing defenses. Since then, Akershus became the crowning jewel of the city’s defensive center. And it has proven its worth, too — it has withstood several military campaigns against the city, even those waged by the famed Swedish troops of the time!

Entering the complex, I saw dozens of tourists lining up for photos with the King’s Guard whose duty it is to guard the castle. These soldiers were stationed at the entrance of Akershus and at several guard points.

Inside, one can see the royal banquet halls with the unmistakable combination of opulence and simplicity that is decidedly Norwegian. There is also the Royal Mausoleum, along with the Akershus Church, where one can visit the Royal Sarcophagi of King Haakon VII and Queen Maud, along with those of King Olav V and Princess Märtha.

Speaking of King Olav, one section of the castle dedicated to him is a must-see for its iconic medieval trappings. This includes metal chandeliers holding tall white candles, high gabled ceilings with heavy wooden beams, and high arched windows on one end. For those looking for a breath of fresh air, there’s the Karpedammen Pond outside which is great for a quiet stroll.

There are also several museums in the castle. There’s one dedicated to Norway’s Armed Forces and another one to the country’s Resistance Movement during World War 2. There is also a Prison Museum which tells a tale of the Akershus as a prison building.

If you’re making your way to Oslo, Norway, make sure to drop by the Akershus Castle! It’s a great way to see Norwegian history from a different perspective, while having a grand time at it, too!