The Vaxholm Fortress describes Swedish coastal guard during 500 years, with special attention given to the defence of the Stockholm archipelago.The construction of this huge defence on the island of Vaxholm (“Guardian Island”) started in 1544 on direct order from King Gustav Vasa to serve as a significant outpost in the archipelago.The citadel was attacked twice, by the Danish in 1612 and by the Russians in 1719, and has also served as a prison.The new fortress museum was opened in 2003 and the exhibitions comprise environments, models, vaults, soldier’s life, prison and more. A guide flier in English is available in the museum.