AKERSHUS 1624 -1648

Throughout the sixteenth century, the medieval castle of Akershus gradually adapted its defences to meet the threat posed by new firearms. An extensive conflagration in 1527, and seven sieges, two in 1567 by the Swedes, prompted extensive plans for modernization.

Extended Media (Oslo) has developed and populated with animated figures a historically accurate, high-quality, explorable, interactive 3D ‘virtual’ model of Akershus Fortress and Castle, Oslo, as it was in the 17^th century. Some of the buildings and fortifications no longer exist in their original state, or are no longer visible – so this virtual version provides a unique opportunity to experience the fortress and castle as they were in the time of King Christian IV (1577 – 1648), who upgraded them into an elegant royal residence and sturdy fortress fit for the times.

‘Akershus 1624 -1648’ was made with support from the Oslo Kommune Kulturetaten Oslobyen Jubileum Fund, commemorating the birth of the new city after the great fire of Oslo in 1624.  The format and dramaturgy for the interactive exhibit was devised by Queens Game. Research and historical input were provided by the chief curator, Visitor Centre, Norwegian Armed Forces Museum, Akershus Fortress & Castle, Oslo.

The set-up of ‘Akershus 1624 -1648’ in the video was temporary, while the exhibit was tested. In October, it will be moved to its new, final location at the end of the gallery.