Photography at Oscar II's Fort

Access Forbidden

As is photography and depiction

Punishable by law

Yes, the text reads just as awkwardly in Swedish.

 Once every four years the 'Secret Rooms' of Sweden are opened up to the public. This weekend was it for 2012 and I visited the 20th century stronghold Oscar II:s Fort. Built in 1907, the fort was to be the modern seat of military prowess on the western front.

The planning was somewhat off though, and after 1930 the fort stayed only marginally in use. In 1955 it was completely decommissioned and has been largely empty since that time. A few years ago parts of the fort were opened up for visitors, but only for scheduled and private viewings.

Still, the fort rests largerly in quietude; a witness to days long past. Despite its excellent location overlooking Gothenburg's archipelage, the whole site is usually closed off. As well it should be, at least as things stand right now. There are many places in which to take an unlucky tumble down razor straight walls, making one suspect that the layout itself is as much of a defense as the old machine guns and canons.

Posing on this picture is my lovely friend Karin

Despite the clear dangers of having hundreds of people jostling around on the narrow pathways and stony hills there were no accidents, as far as this writer is aware. Exploring the ruin was great fun for the whole family, no doubt. The kids, big and small, sure seemed to enjoy their stay.

When battlements have turned into playgrounds, you know you've done something right.

I really wanted those boxes, just saying.

Did I mention the rust? It was everywhere.

All in all Oscar II's Fort feels almost idyllic where it lies blasted into the rock. It's strange how a military stronghold can feel so peaceful, but it really does, like an old warrior gone to a final rest by the sea.

Let's hope more than just the Swedish forts go to a well deserved rest in the 21th century.