Bergenhus Fortress

You're standing at Bergenhus, the old fortress guarding the entrance to Bergen's harbour. Take a look around. This is one of the oldest and best preserved stone fortifications in Norway. Long before soldiers moved in, this spot was simply called Holmen. And this is where the kings lived. Until 1299, Bergen was the capital of Norway. Holmen held the royal residence, a cathedral, several churches and the bishop's house. In the 1240s it was enclosed by a stone wall.