Akershus Fortress, the protector of Oslo. Built in the 1290s in response to a prior attack by a Norwegian nobleman, the compound has served as guardian in many battles and as home to prisoners from time to time. It’s proximity to the water is a crucial factor in it’s success as the majority of Norway’s commerce was conducted at sea until fairly recently. The location of the fortress is so strategic that whoever ruled Akershus ruled Norway.
Most of the military battles that ensued at Akershus were with the Swedes. Akershus was never captured by a foreign enemy in battle; however, in the face of German occupation, Norway surrendered in 1940. While under German control during World War II, several people were executed at Akershus. On May 11, 1945, the Germans surrenedered back to Norway and Akershus was again under Norwegian control. Shortly thereafter, 8 Norwegian traitors (including Vidkun Quisling, a Norwegian Nazi puppet–consult another blog entry for more details on Quisling) were executed at Akershus.
Throughout Norway’s history, Akershus festning has housed many Norwegian criminals. It was even considered appropriate at one time to use prisoners as slaves for rent to do work in the city. One particular event, the Kautokeino Rebellion of 1852 led to the imprisonment of many Sami at Akershus. The revolt was caused by several factors including a new movement by the Sami that was at odds with the priest and the merchant, as well as Norwegian law (more on this in another blog…). Following the rebellion, all of the Sami men involved were sent to Akershus accept the two men who led the revolt, who were beheaded in Alta, northern Norway. Lars Haetta, one of the survivors of the rebellion who spent many years at Akershus used his time to translate the Bible into North Sami.
In the early 17th century, the fortress was modernized to resemble a renaissance castle, which is how it looks today. Today, the fortress still occupies a military role, but it is also a historical point of interest as well. In addition to the grounds of the fortress, the Norwegian Armed Forces museum and the Norwegian Resistance museum area open to the public daily. I attended an excellent tour of Akershus when I lived in Oslo. It was perhaps the coldest day I have ever experienced too-but was well worth the discomfort of walking around in the aggressively cold wind. Our tour guide was phenomenal. A good tour guide really makes a tour. I highly suggest making a trip Akershus.�
