Akershus fortress
Akershus Fortress is situated in the centre of Oslo, and with its beautiful green surroundings, it is a popular recreational area in the city. The fortress has been at the centre of the nation's growth and development for 700 years, and it is now very popular as a culture arena. At the fortress, you can experience a unique historical environment and enjoy stimulating cultural experiences.
The Armed Forces’ Main Seat, National Monument, and Vibrant Urban Area
Visit the Fortress Museums
At the fortress, you’ll find Akershus Castle, the Armed Forces Museum, and the Norwegian Resistance Museum—each with its own unique collection of historical artifacts from Norway’s military history.
History of the Fortress
Akershus Fortress has served as a center of power and a national symbol for over 700 years. Construction began around 1290, likely under King Håkon V Magnusson, who made Akershus a royal residence and the new seat of power when Oslo replaced Bergen as the capital. Throughout the Middle Ages, the castle was expanded with additions such as the Maiden’s Tower (Jomfrutårnet), Vågehals, and the Canon’s Tower (Kanniketårnet). The fortress was first tested in battle during an attack in 1308. During the Union period and the Kalmar Union in the 15th century, Akershus was besieged several times and was continuously reinforced and rebuilt to adapt to changing threats and military technology.
In the 16th and 17th centuries, the fortress was modernized into a bastion fortress following new European defense principles, particularly under King Christian IV and Governor Hannibal Sehested. New towers, ramparts, and casemates were constructed, and the castle was transformed into a Renaissance palace. Akershus became part of the city’s defensive system and saw its last military action in 1716, when King Charles XII of Sweden attacked during the Great Northern War. After 1814, the fortress was gradually phased out as a military stronghold, assuming new functions as a national prison, school, depot, and military administration center.
During the 19th and 20th centuries, much of the outer ramparts were removed, while new buildings such as barracks, offices, and workshops were added. The site was used by the Army and various state institutions. In the early 1900s, public interest in preserving the fortress as a national monument grew. Restoration projects and archaeological excavations were launched, and the Norwegian Parliament decided that Akershus should house national historical memorials.
During the German occupation from 1940 to 1945, the fortress was used by Nazi forces, and 42 Norwegian resistance members were executed here. After the war, the fortress was restored, the church reopened, and the castle began serving as a venue for government representation.
Today, Akershus Fortress houses several museums and memorials, and is open to the public.
The fortress is a protected site managed by Forsvarsbygg (the Norwegian Defence Estates Agency), which, through conservation plans and maintenance, ensures the preservation of this historic site as a living part of the nation's cultural heritage.
Practical information
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May 1 – September 30
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Main gate: 06:00 – 21:00
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Side gates (Monday–Friday): 07:00 – 21:00
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Side gates (Saturday–Sunday): 08:00 – 21:00
October 1 – April 30
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Main gate: 06:00 – 21:00
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Side gates (all days): 07:00 – 18:00
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Admission to the fortress grounds is free of charge. Museums, concerts, events, festivals, and similar activities require separate tickets and pricing.
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Akershus festning
051 Oslo
Conduct at Akershus Fortress
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Drone use is prohibited.
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Grilling and open fires are banned year-round, including disposable grills.
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The fortress walls are high – please keep an eye on children.
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Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.
Akershus Fortress is a historic military site and a vibrant cultural venue, visited by millions of people each year. It is an important landmark in the local community—both as a destination and as a place for business activity.
The fortresses are also meeting points where history and contemporary society intersect, and where the civilian world meets the Armed Forces.
As the property manager, our mission is to support development that brings these sites to life while preserving their historical legacy. We do this by keeping the fortresses open and accessible to visitors, while also leasing buildings and outdoor areas to businesses offering meaningful experiences.
We are responsible for the maintenance of buildings and fortress walls, as well as the care of outdoor spaces.
