The parade ground is the central courtyard of the fortress. The square is surrounded by several buildings, including the main tower, and offers great views of the fortress and the surrounding archipelago. The square is also a popular venue for concerts and festivals. From here, a sightseeing tour goes to the southwestern battery - a fortification located on the southern tip of the fortress. It was built at the end of the 19th century and was equipped with heavy artillery to protect the entrance to Vaxholm harbor. Battery is a well-preserved example of military architecture from the late 19th century. Four 57-mm cannons of the 1889 model form the salute battery of the fortress. The salute battery was used until 2006. The national salute and the royal salute contains 21 volleys. It shakes the air on the occasion of the birth of heirs to the throne, on the occasion of the death of a monarch, and on the accession of a new monarch to the throne. Only in the case of accession to the throne, the salute includes two rounds of volleys. Salute gun weight: 340 kg (950 kg including carriage and shield) Firing range: 3500 m Construction: Stockholm arms factory.
Also in the bastion is a 23-cm bomb cannon of the 1854 model "Wahrendorffare". This was the first breech-loading cannon. Her tests took place here, in the fortress, in 1842. In the mid-1800s, breech-loading guns were introduced into service. They replaced muzzle-loading guns everywhere. The idea itself was not new, but previously used systems were ineffective. Reverse (breech-loading) loading has several advantages. The projectile can accurately enter the barrel and seal it, resulting in better shooting accuracy and increased firepower. Artillery crews work faster, because it becomes easier to load and unload a gun, especially when it comes to a gun turret in a tight bastion. The gun was built at the Akera gun factory. It has a smooth barrel and rear loading. Gun weight: 4080 kg. Firing range: 1200 meters.
The sea route from Stockholm to Vaxholm is an unforgettable experience. Here you can fully enjoy the beauty of the Stockholm archipelago. The journey begins in the very center of the city, where you can admire the stunning view of Stockholm from the deck of the ship.
As the ship weeds out of the city and into the archipelago, the landscape changes dramatically. Rocky islands with their pine trees and small cottages create a peaceful atmosphere. The water is calm and the summer sun gives the sea a deep blue color.
The sailing to Vaxholm takes about 45 minutes and includes several islands and islets where you can see historic cottages and summer houses. The route passes through narrow channels, small ports and harbors where boats of all shapes and sizes are moored.
All in all, the sailing route from Stockholm to Vaxholm is a great way to experience the natural beauty and tranquility of summer Sweden.
Arriving in Vaxholm, you plunge into the special atmosphere of island life.
Vaxholm is an island located about 30 km east of Stockholm. The island is a popular tourist destination, known for its picturesque old town, which has well-preserved wooden houses and cobbled streets. The island also has a well-preserved fortress built in the 16th century. The fortress is open to visitors and offers a glimpse into the military history of the island. Vaxholm is known for its seafood and traditional Swedish cuisine.
To end the day at sunset, kayaking through the canals and straits around the largest natural reserve in the Stockholm archipelago makes this day unforgettable.
