ANNO 1308
Welcome to Bohus Fortress!
One of Västra Götaland’s seven wonders and a popular destination, Bohus Fortress not only offers a unique history with magnificent architecture, here, you can also play, learn, eat and socialise in a genuine and culturally rich environment.
Welcome!
Upcoming events
Don’t miss our new digital guide!
Through our new guide, you can now go back in time in both Swedish and English.
We recommend using headphones for the most optimal experience. Pleasurable indeed!
To access the guide, visit this page on your mobile phone.
700 years
of nordic history
At the Peace of Roskilde in 1658, Bohuslän became Swedish, but Bohu’s fortress had an anything but peaceful existence. Since its founding in 1308, the fortress has endured 14 sieges, but has never been captured. After the Swedes became masters of Bohus, it was now instead Danes and Norwegians who besieged the fortress, but without success.
The worst siege ever took place in the summer of 1678, when 15,000 Danes and Norwegians subjected the 800 Swedish and Finnish defenders to a massive bombardment for two months.
Read more about 700 years of war, weddings and finally peace.
The kids at Bohus Fortress
Jump in the bouncy castle, try archery or ride our turner horse on rails. Challenge each other to a tug of war, or discover the horrific dungeons. At Bohus Fortress there is something for everyone. Discover, play and socialise in one of the country’s most educational environments.
Watch the movie
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Ongoing exhibitions
Kristian IV and Ny-Kungälv
At the beginning of the 17th century, disputes flare up between Sweden and Denmark/Norway, in the so-called The Kalmar War. The king of Denmark, Christian IV, now moves several cities so that they will be near a fortress for protection. In 1611, the Swedes burn down Kungahälla, which at this time is located further out along Nordre älv. Instead of building up the city, Christian IV orders that the city be built up near Bohu, on the fortress islet.
A decision that would cost more than it tasted. The city only came to be here for about 30 years, then it was burned. Don’t miss the exhibition about Christian IV and Ny-Kungälv!
Crime & Punishment
1693 – 1771
While studying in Lund, Thomas was arrested for his pietistic confession and after a trial in which he boldly confessed his faith, he was sentenced to prison. He was only 35 years old.
He was then imprisoned for his faith. The first 7 years were spent at Bohus Fortress, thereafter a little over 5 years at Kalmar Fortress. Another 5 years was spent at Danviken Hospital and finally an additional 25 years at Bohus making him the longest surviving prisoner in Bohus’ history.
Queen Blanka of Namur
1320 – 1362
Blanka of Namur was born in 1320 and was a countess of what is now a province in Belgium. Through her marriage to King Magnus Eriksson, in 1335 she became a Swedish, Norwegian and Scanian queen. The wedding took place at Bohus Fortress where the celebration lasted for several days. Bohus became a residence of royalty for many years to come.
Together they had two sons, Erik and Håkan, and three daughters. Håkan Magnusson was appointed King of Norway in 1343 by the Norwegian nobles.
Watch the movie
Watch the movie
Thomas Leopold
1693 – 1771
While studying in Lund, Thomas was arrested for his pietistic confession and after a trial in which he boldly confessed his faith, he was sentenced to prison. He was only 35 years old.
He was thereby imprisoned for his faith. The first 7 years were at Bohus Fortress, thereafter a little over 5 years at Kalmar Fortress. After that he served 5 years at Danviken Hospital and finally another 25 years at Bohus making him the longest surviving prisoner in Bohus’ history.
