The Citadel - Kastellet

The island is a defense facility from the 17th century when Danish feuds were common. Today, "Kastellet" is an exciting and beautiful destination for visitors of all ages. Every summer theater is played on the island, a popular feature in Karlshamn during peak season.

During summer the boat goes daily to "Kastellet" from the archipelago terminal in the city center of Karlshamn and the boat tour takes only five minutes.

"Frisholmen", as the citadel is also called, began to be built in 1675 when Denmark declared war on Sweden. The castle was in use for nearly 200 years, but from the very beginning was quite vulnerable to artillery from the surrounding rock outcrops on land. There were 242 cannons and a force of 400 on the island men and the defence facility was in use until 1865.

A well-known prisoner was kept on the island for a while: the stiff-necked farmer Vitus Andersson from Trossö in eastern Blekinge. The internment was part of the Swedish authorities' "attempt at persuasion" to get Vitus to release him to his land where the king wanted to build Karlskrona.

Many of the 300-year-old defense installations are surprisingly well preserved. Following old drawings, the old church has been rebuilt here, which is now a popular wedding venue. There is a powder cellar on the island. In early summer, the island absolutely explodes with lilacs.

Feel free to bring a picnic basket to the island, which is a nice excursion destination for the whole family. The castle is a real gem for anyone who has imagination and a child's mind intact.
During the low season, the Waffle Cafe is open, but opening hours may vary.

Link to timetable: https://visitkarlshamn.se/resa/bat/tidtabeller