The Citadel, situated at the Stavern Island, signified the first part of Stavern Fort built by Count Ulrik Frederik Gyldenløve in the 1670s.
The fort later became important during the Great Nordic War in the 1700s. Today the island is open to the public and it is a haven for many artists.
Stavern is full of memories from the past. The town has two forts, Stavern fort and Fredriksvern. Each of them has, in its own way, contributed to the town’s growth and development.
The Citadel came to prominence in the Great Nordic War from 1709-20 when Stavern fort and the harbour were used as the fleet base for Norwegian and Danish warships as well as for the merchant ships which maintained the supply route between Denmark and Norway in difficult times.
In those days the Norwegian naval hero, Peter Wessel Tordenskiold, used Stavern as his main port. While staying, the story goes that he fell in love with a Stavern girl, whose ghost has been seen in the vicinity of the Citadel.
At least, so they say.
Today, the idyllic island is open to the public and the Citadel tower is opened on request. Every summer theatre performances are being held here, and the museum is open for visitors.
In the old commander’s residence, quite a few Norwegian artists have spent their holidays since the start of the 20th century and been inspired to artistic creation there. Hans Gude, Christian Krogh and Odd Nerdrum are among those who have visited the island now popularly known as the Citadel Island.
Today Tordenskiold is cast in bronze, and his torso can be seen on a rock by the harbour. Famous Norwegian sculptor Gustav Vigeland has immortalized Tordenskiold, staring out at his old anchorage.