The shipyard was built following the Great Nordic War to serve as a secure harbor for the navy's larger vessels.
During the 18th century, the site was known as Staverns Fort before being renamed to honor King Frederik V.
The area contains the 'Garnisonskirken' (Garrison Church), an octagonal wooden structure built in 1756.
Many of the original buildings were constructed using timber salvaged from older structures in the region to save costs.
The shipyard facilities were specifically designed to allow for the wintering of warships to avoid ice damage.
It functioned as the naval academy for Norway between 1817 and 1850.
Fredriksvern Verft is Norway's oldest naval base, established in 1750 as the main station for the Dano-Norwegian navy. Located in Stavern, the site consists of a preserved 18th-century naval shipyard, fortress walls, and a collection of historic wooden buildings. It served as a strategic military outpost throughout the Napoleonic Wars and the Dano-Swedish War. Following its military decommissioning, the area has transitioned into a public cultural arena housing galleries, workshops, and exhibitions. The site layout remains largely intact, featuring original cannons, officers' quarters, and a commandant's residence. It is currently managed by Forsvarsbygg, the Norwegian Defence Estates Agency, as a protected cultural heritage site. The architecture reflects the rococo influence typical of mid-18th-century Norwegian military planning. Visitors can walk along the ramparts and explore the maritime history of the Larvik region.
The view from the main gate looking down the central avenue toward the commandant's house.
Walk along the outer ramparts for panoramic views of the Skagerrak coastline.
Visit the secondary buildings to find local artisan galleries that are often tucked away from the main thoroughfare.
Bring comfortable walking shoes to navigate the original gravel and stone pathways.
Do not attempt to climb or sit on the historical cannons, as they are fragile heritage artifacts.
Outdoor areas are open year-round, while specific indoor exhibitions and museum galleries are primarily limited to the summer season.
Maintain a respectful distance from private workshops and residential quarters within the complex.
