Imagine standing here on Bornholm island. Before you lies Hammershus. It is the largest castle ruin in Northern Europe.
Hammershus Castle’s story is one of power struggles and dramatic escapes. For centuries, it stood as a symbol of Bornholm’s rulers. They rebuilt and extended it many times.
The oldest parts of Hammershus date back to the 13th century. They were likely built by the Archbishop of Lund. He wanted to control the island. Around 1300 Jens Grand, archbishop in Lund from 1289-1302, should have built the castle.
For 500 years, Hammershus was a stronghold. Various rulers of the island lived here. The Crown and the church fought for control until the mid-15th century. Bornholm was a pawn in their game. King Valdemar IV Atterdag handed the island back to the church in 1362. The bishop had to return Hammershus if the king wished. King Christian II took back the castle in 1522.
In 1660, Hammershus became a prison. Leonora Christina and her husband, Corfitz Ulfeldt, were imprisoned for treason. Leonora was King Christian IV’s daughter. They tried to escape down the walls. But they failed.
By the late 17th century, Hammershus’s role changed. Defenses shifted to Christiansø and Rønne. In 1743, Hammershus was abandoned. Locals took building materials from the site. In 1822, the ruins were put on the national historic register.
Today, Hammershus Castle is a popular attraction. Visitors explore the preserved rooms. The visitor center offers panoramic views. It also has an exhibition about the castle’s history.
New research suggests Hammershus was completed around 1200. The archbishop of Lund controlled the island from here. He collected taxes from all over Bornholm. Common people did not like the castle.
There are theories about the Knights Templar. Some say Hammershus was their base before a crusade to Estonia. This has never been confirmed.
Hammershus played a role in 1658. Bornholm insurgents seized the island from Swedish forces. Villum Clausen killed the lord lieutenant, Johan Printzenskøld. This event and the Soviet occupation after World War II explain Bornholm’s patriotism.
If you visit Rønne, find the paving stones in Storegade. They mark where Printzenskøld fell.
Guides can enhance your visit to Hammershus. They share details and stories. Leonora Christina’s imprisonment and escape are popular tales. She crawled out the window and rappelled down the walls using bedsheets.
Hammershus is impressive in any weather. Sunny days are stunning. Gale-force winds make the ruins dramatic. Fog creates a mystical atmosphere.
Walking from Hammerhavnen harbor is a highlight. You can see the Lion Heads rock formation and Sweden’s Scania province. The trail has 300 plant species. Some are rare herbs from the medieval period. Look for the cross carved by soldiers. It commemorates someone’s death in the 1600s. It is near the Butter Cellar.
The Brohuset visitor center has an exhibition and the Solveig restaurant. It offers views of Hammershus. The prices are reasonable. There is also a kiosk on the Hammerhavnen waterfront. For ice cream, visit Sandvig Is Kalas near Sandvig Harbour.
Hammershus stands as a testament to Bornholm’s past. Its stones whisper tales of power, imprisonment, and resilience. As you leave, remember the stories etched into these ancient walls.