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Ruins · Rønne, Região da Capital
Hammershus
The ruins of the 13th-century fortress on a 74-metre cliff at Bornholm's northern tip, the largest medieval fortification in Scandinavia, with a visitor centre and coastal trails around Hammeren.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Hammershus
Hammershus was built in the 13th century by the archbishops of Lund, who contested the island with the Danish kings. The fortress sits atop a granite cliff 74 metres above the sea, on the northwest tip of Bornholm, protected by valleys on both sides. It is the largest medieval fortification in Scandinavia.
For centuries Hammershus was the island's power centre. In 1658 Bornholm passed to Sweden and, at the end of that same year, the locals revolted, killed the Swedish commander and returned the island to the Danish king. The fortress was abandoned in the 18th century and served as a quarry until it became a protected monument in 1822.
The ruins include the Mantel tower, the curtain wall, the gates, the chapel and the remains of halls and storehouses. A visitor centre, with a facade that fits into the valley terrain, tells the fortress's story and has a cafe with a view. Trails run along the coast of the Hammeren peninsula, past the former quarry lake (Opalsøen) and the Hammer Odde lighthouse, to Sandvig.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
1 to 2 hours for the ruins; half a day with the Hammeren trail.
Best time
From May to September, when the days are long. In the late afternoon the sun sets over the sea to the west of the ruins. The ruins are outdoors and open; the visitor centre has its own opening hours, check in advance.
How to get there
It is on the northwest tip of the island, about 25 km north of Rønne and 3 km south of Allinge. Buses from Rønne and Allinge stop nearby; by car there is parking at the visitor centre.
Tip
Take the Hammeren trail to Sandvig and return by bus. Wear sturdy footwear: the rocks and steps are uneven.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Hammershus
Is Hammershus the largest medieval ruin in Scandinavia?
It is the largest medieval fortification in Scandinavia, atop a 74-metre cliff on the north coast of Bornholm.
How to get there from Rønne?
By bus or car, about 25 km north.
Are there trails nearby?
Yes — along the Hammeren peninsula, past the Opalsøen lake and the Hammer Odde lighthouse, to Sandvig.