Bohus Fortress

Bohus Fortress, located just north of Gothenburg, is one of Scandinavia’s most formidable medieval castles. Built in 1308 by King Håkon V of Norway, it was designed to guard the border between Norway and Sweden. Over the centuries, the fortress endured countless sieges but was never conquered by force.

While Bohus has a proud military history, it also has a darker side. From the 16th century onwards, the fortress was used as a state prison. Its dungeons housed thieves, rebels, and political prisoners, but also those accused of witchcraft. During the witch trials of the 1600s, women suspected of sorcery were confined in the fortress’s dungeon before being led to the stake and burned.

At the beginning of the 17th century, many women were suspected of witchcraft and began to act strangely. One such case was that of Gunder Anderssis, who in 1629 was accused of being a witch. Her trial took place on March 16, and shortly after—during the night between March 29 and 30—she hanged herself in the Fars Hatt tower where she was being held. Later that same day, her body was burned at the stake.

Today, visitors can explore the fortress ruins and descend into the eerie prison cells where countless captives suffered. Exhibitions recount the fortress’s dual history as both a defensive bastion and a site of persecution, making Bohus a chilling reminder of Scandinavia’s witch-hunting past.