Oslo - Akershus Castle

To the west of southern central Oslo, rising above the Oslofjord on the promontory of Akersnes, is Akershus Castle, begun by Håkon V at the end of the 13th century. In the reign of Christian IV the medieval stronghold was converted into a Renaissance castle and the fortifications were extended.

The entrance, in Festningsplass, leads up to the Castle proper, now used for government receptions and other functions. Visitors are shown various rooms, including Christian IV's Hall and the chapel, with the tomb of Håkon VII (1872-1957) in the crypt.