The huge Bohus Fortress looms over the scenic countryside north of Gothenburg. You are bound to notice the castle long before you have reached it, as the 14th-century building sits perched on a 40-metre (130-foot) cliff. Explore within the stone walls, mount the high turrets and breathe the cold air of the dungeon.
In 1308, when the land belonged to the Norwegians, King Haaken V Magnuson built the first castle on this site. Although it survived more than a dozen sieges throughout the years, the fortress was damaged so heavily by fighting in the 1560s that it had to undergo extensive renovations. Changes were made in the early 1600s, and Norway ceded the land to Sweden soon after.
From the parking lot, climb a hill and pass through the main gates to enter the castle. Once inside, inspect the ancient stonework that surrounds you. Imagine the knights that once resided here and the battles that rocked these walls.
Learn more about Bohus Fortress’s history in the museum. Hear the tales of sieges, battles and kings that have shaped the castle. Enter the dungeon area to see where the radical Pietist Thomas Leopold lived out his 42-year prison sentence. Pay a small fee to be led around the castle by guides in medieval garb, who will tell you more stories from the castle’s history.
Re-enactments of sieges, traditional dances and stalls bring the fortress to life every July during the Kungahälla Medieval Festival. Join the fun at the second-largest medieval festival in Sweden. Come in August to see the area packed with visitors to the Soul Rebel Reggae Festival.
Drive 20 kilometres (12 miles) north of Gothenburg to reach Bohus Fortress, which sits along the southern edge of Kungälv in the province of Bohuslän. The museum is open April through to October, with extended opening hours during the peak season of June to August. There is a small fee for entry.
