Carlsten Fortress, Stone fortress on Marstrand Island, Sweden
The fortified complex rises from the rocky summit of Marstrand Island and features a circular tower reaching 40 meters in height with surrounding defensive walls.
King Charles X Gustav ordered the construction of Carlsten Fortress in 1658 after Sweden acquired the Bohuslän region through the Treaty of Roskilde.
The fortress functioned as a prison for male convicts who performed hard labor, including the notable inmate Lasse-Maja who later became the facility chef.
Visitors reach the fortress via a 45-minute bus ride from Gothenburg or through a two-hour ferry journey, with guided tours explaining the military architecture.
The fortress offers overnight stays in Donjonen, former soldier quarters from the 1800s, where guests experience medieval-style dinners served on wooden plates.
Location: Kungälv Municipality
Inception: 1658
Founders: Charles X Gustav of Sweden
Address: Carlstens fästning, 442 67 Marstrand, Sweden SE-442 67
Phone: +4630361167
Website: https://carlsten.se
GPS coordinates: 57.88611,11.57833
Latest update: May 27, 2025 13:15
Sweden contains medieval fortresses, national parks, historical churches and museums. The country spans from southern sand beaches to arctic regions. Visitors can find 18th century ironworks, prehistoric rock carvings and Viking burial grounds. The coastline features limestone cliffs above archipelago islands.
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