Vardøhus Fortress is the northernmost fortress in the world. The fortress was built in the first half of the eighteenth century as a key defence for Norwegian territory in Finnmark. The fortress is largely unchanged and is made up of several interesting buildings. The fortress is the third to have been sited in the town. The first was built in the fourteenth century. The fortress has a commander on site, and fires its cannons on royal birthdays and annually at the end of the "polar night". Guided tours are available by appointment.
