Hammershus Castle (Bornholm) : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Are you looking for an interesting destination to visit? If yes, then look no further than the beautiful medieval fortress of Hammershus Castle located on the small Danish island of Bornholm! Boasting over 800 years of history, it is the largest castle ruin in the Northern Europe with gigantic walls and towers that will take your breath away. This article provides interesting facts, detailed information, and a travel guide about the Hammershus Castle. From the castle’s historical significance to the numerous activities to enjoy in the area, this guide will ensure that you have the perfect trip to the majestic castle of Hammershus on the Danish island of Bornholm.

Interesting Facts About Hammershus Castle (Bornholm)

1. The oldest parts of Hammershus Castle date back to the late 13th century.

2. The castle was once used as a prison, and housed both criminals and political prisoners.

3. The castle survived all of Denmark’s wars between 1400 and 1809, ultimately being destroyed by a fire in 1809.

4. The castle is built on an enormous mass of granite, and some parts of the castle are made with granite blocks weighing up to 50 tons!

5. In 1953, the castle was used by Oluf Palme (the Prime Minister of Sweden) as a place to conduct secret talks with the U.S. ambassador.

6. In 2001, excavation work uncovered a variety of artifacts, including pottery and coins from the Middle Ages.

7. The castle has recently been restored and is now open to the public, with guided tours available all year round.

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History & Information About Hammershus Castle (Bornholm)

Hammershus is a castle ruin located on the north tip of the Danish island of Bornholm. It is the largest medieval fortress ruins in the northern Baltic region and has been an important site for both defence and commerce since its construction in the late 12th century.

The ruins were built mainly in the 13th century, but its origins are believed to date further back to Viking Age. It was built by the powerful Teutonic Order as a military stronghold to strengthen and defend the eastern border of Denmark, and was used mainly as a castle and fortress for the knights of the Teutonic Order until the 15th century, when Denmark annexed the island. The castle was used sporadically over the centuries for a variety of purposes, including a prison and a summer residence for the royal family.

The castle now stands as an iconic symbol of the turbulent history of Bornholm and the Baltic region, and brings a unique insight into the military architecture and architecture of the Middle Ages and of the duchy of Holstein, which was eventually merged into Denmark in 1523.

Today, the castle stands mostly in ruins with parts of its walls and tower still standing, and is open to tourists and visitors. The ruins are listed on the Danish registry of Historical Monuments and form part of the larger Hammershus Museum, which is the largest open-air history museum on the island. The museum features various exhibits, artifacts and interpretive programs that tell the story of the castle’s history.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Hammershus Castle (Bornholm)

1. Where to Stay:
The closest hotel to Hammershus Castle is Erichsens Hotels. It is situated 10km away from the castle in the town of Sandvig. The hotel offers family-style rooms and suites, and it offers stunning views of the historic castle ruins.

2. How to get there:
The best way to get to Hammershus Castle from other major cities is by airplane. Flights from Copenhagen arrive at Bornholm Airport, which is located about 60km away from the castle. There are also scenic ferry rides available from Osterport Terminal or Helsingør Terminal.

3. Things to do:
Hammershus Castle is a stunningly well-preserved ruin and offers a unique view of the island’s past. To get the fullest experience of the castle, it is advisable to take a guided tour of the grounds. There are also fenced-off areas accessible to visitors. The castle has a restaurant and café on site, and there are some outdoor activities to take part in including hikes and cycling tours in the surrounding area.

4. Local Cuisine:
Bornholm is known for its local delicacies including smoked herrings, smoked mackerel, and locally produced beer. The region also produces some exquisite wines and is home to some of Denmark’s best dairy farms.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Hammershus Castle (Bornholm)

Q. When was Hammershus Castle built?
A. Hammershus Castle was built in the late 12th and 13th centuries by the Archbishop of Lund.

Q. Is there still a castle at Hammershus?
A. Yes, remnants of the castle still stand today and are open to the public.

Q. Where is Hammershus Castle located?
A. Hammershus Castle is located on the northwest coast of the Danish island of Bornholm.

Q. What is the best way to visit the castle?
A. Visitors can access the castle by bus or by car. The bus runs daily from the towns of Hasle and Aakirkeby.

Q. Is there an admission fee to visit the castle?
A. Yes, visitors must pay an admission fee to access the castle and its surrounding park.

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