Vaxholm Fortress

Historic 16th-century fortress on the island of Vaxholmen in the Stockholm archipelago, now a state monument and museum.

Vaxholm Fortress sits on the island of Vaxholmen in the Stockholm archipelago, near the town of Vaxholm, and is one of Scandinavia's most fascinating defensive structures. The history of the fortification dates back to 1544, when King Gustav Vasa initiated its construction; the first fortress was completed in 1548. Over the centuries it was expanded in 1604 and completely rebuilt in 1833 — the fortress's current appearance dates from this period. Since 1935 the structure has been protected by Statens fastighetsverk as a state-listed historic monument. No longer in military use, the fortress today serves as a museum, and with its ferry crossing over the water and views across the Stockholm archipelago, it offers one of the most atmospheric excursions in the region.