NorskKongsten Fort is among Fredrikstad’s many unique cultural monuments, and is part of Fredrikstad Fortress – Old Town. From Kongsten there is a fantastic view of the city and the district, and it is an excellent destination for an excursion with a picnic basket within walking distance of the Old Town.
Kongsten Fort is situated 500 metres east of The Old Town. It was built around 1680 on the rocky outcrop of Galgeberget. The fortress was constructed according to the ancient Italian principles of fortification, with high bastions, hornworks, and redans that would provide protection from invading armies. Military strategists understood that, if captured, the small hill would provide an enemy with a raised platform for their artillery, greatly increasing the range of canon shot.