Skansen Kronan (Crown Sconce), Gothenburg

The Crown Sconce (Skansen Kronan) stands in the Haga district of Gothenburg. It, along with its counterpart Skansen Lejonet, was constructed to defend Gothenburg from potential Danish attacks, similar to the purpose of the nearby sea fort, New Älvsborg.

Gothenburg was established in 1621 and fortified with an impressive system of defenses. However, military strategists were concerned about two hills, Gullberg and Risåsberg, overlooking the city. To counter this vulnerability, forts were built atop both hills. Designed by Erik Dahlbergh, the Crown Sconce sits atop Risåsberg while Skansen Lejonet occupies Gullberg.

Construction on Crown Sconce began in 1687, officially completed in 1698 with 23 guns installed, though the roof wasn't finished until 1700. Its formidable walls, made of granite, gneiss, and diabase, measure 4-5 meters thick. Despite its readiness, the fortress never faced attack, and its cannons remained silent.

In the early 1900s, the decision was made to repurpose the fortress as a military museum, which opened in November 1904. The museum closed in September 2004, transferring its collections to the Museum of Gothenburg. The Crown Sconce received protected status as a listed building in 1935.

Originally outside the city walls, the Crown Sconce is now nestled within the urban fabric of Haga in Gothenburg's west-central area. Today, it's privately owned and serves as a venue for conferences and private events. Beyond its historical significance, the old fortress provides panoramic views of the city.