Bergenhus Fortress, a monumental symbol of Bergen’s rich and tumultuous history, is an essential stop for anyone intrigued by the stories etched into the fabric of this Norwegian city. Its grounds encompass the central areas within the ramparts, originally known as Holmen, and the surrounding regions of Koengen and Sverresborg. These three areas were consolidated into one vast military fortification in the 1700s, making it a formidable defense structure by the time it reached its complete state.
Despite its formidable appearance, Bergenhus Fortress has seen surprisingly little direct conflict. Its only siege occurred on August 2, 1665, during the Battle of Vågen. Dutch ships, seeking refuge in Bergen's neutral harbor, were pursued by English warships. The fortress's strong resistance ensured that the battle was brief yet fierce, showcasing the strength of Bergenhus’s defences.
Fast forward to World War II, and Bergenhus Fortress once again became a focal point of military significance. On April 9, 1940, Bergen, like other major Norwegian cities, was occupied by German forces. The locals awoke to the sight of a German flag flying over the fortress, signalling the start of a new, challenging era. German forces used Bergenhus as their western headquarters, with all buildings except Håkon’s Hall serving military purposes. A notable remnant of this period is the reinforced bunker built by Soviet prisoners of war, a stark reminder of the fortress’s wartime role.
The fortress’s history took a tragic turn on April 20, 1944, when the Dutch freight ship Voorbode, carrying 124 tonnes of explosives, exploded in Bergen's harbor. The explosion caused catastrophic damage, killing 158 people and wounding 4,800 others. The blast devastated the harbor area, damaging historic buildings including Bryggen, the Rosenkrantz Tower, and Håkon’s Hall. Remarkably, these cultural landmarks have since been meticulously restored, preserving Bergen’s architectural heritage.
