Three-storey Martello tower built in 1686-1690. The cannon deck houses a range of artillery. The lower floors house exhibitions of the history of Fladstrand (later Frederikshavn) and the port. This tower was part of the fortifications originally built by the Germans in 1626-29, at a time when the army of the German emperor had occupied Jutland.

The Fladstrand fortress had great significance during the Great Northern War (1709-1720). At that time, Denmark and Norway were one kingdom, and at war with Sweden.

Fladstrand had a crucial role in the shipping of agricultural products, etc. to Norway , which wasn’t self-sufficient in foodstuffs, and securing the route to Norway was one of the fleet’s most important tasks. During that time, Peder Wessel, the naval hero, gained great significance. He was born in Norway, but made his career in the Danish fleet, and was given the accolade ‘Tordenskiold’ (Thundershield).

Every year, a historic pageant is performed at the Powder Magazine, called “The days of Tordenskiold – the year is 1717”, where 1,000 volunteers in period costume enact the daredevil exploits of the town’s great naval hero. The festival climaxes with a swashbuckling sea battle in the dock.

During the English War (1807-1814), Fladstrand had great significance for the Northern Jutland boat traders' participation in the privateer war, in which the traders ran legalised pirating operations against the English conveys. These lucrative exploits led to the town’s development so that in 1818 it was granted a municipal charter and renamed Frederikshavn, after King Frederik VI. The commandant’s residence opposite The Powder Magazine is from the time of the privateers.

Useful information for excursion planners:

Opening hours: 10:30 AM - 5 PM

Not accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs.



See also:

www.frederikshavn-tourist.dk