Fredriksvern Fortress

Initial fortress constructions occurred between 1675 and 1679 under the reign of Christian IV. The complex underwent an expansion in 1680 by Count Fredrik Gyldenløve, whose citadel was important during the Great Northern War (1709-1720). By order of Fredrik V, a shipyard with a dry dock was built during the winters of 1748 and 1749. In 1750, Fredriksvern became the first Norwegian naval base, serving to defend against potential Swedish invasions by disrupting their supply routes. The shipyard, completed in 1750, produced numerous ships. In 1756, the garrison church of Fredriksvern was completed in Renaissance and Baroque styles. Fredriksvern remained an active naval base until 2002, most recently as an Air Force Academy.