Staverns Fortress, Military fortress in Stavern, Norway
Staverns Fortress sits on Citadelløya island and comprises three cannon batteries, defensive walls, and a blockhouse designed according to 17th-century military principles. The complex displays the typical fortification elements of a coastal defense installation from that era.
Construction started in 1677 under Ulrik Frederick Gyldenløve as part of Norway's coastal defense system during the Gyldenløve War of 1675-1679. The fortification rose during a period of intensified coastal defense building.
The site holds Norway's first garrison church completed in 1756, which displays rococo architectural details that visitors encounter while walking the grounds. This sacred building reflected the spiritual needs of the stationed troops.
You can explore the grounds along clearly marked paths that lead to the various fortification structures. Sturdy footwear is advisable since the terrain is uneven and some structures are accessible via stairs.
The Krutttårnet powder magazine stands as one of the oldest structures on the site and retains its original 17th-century design. This tower was built with exceptionally thick walls designed to contain potential explosions.
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