A seaside settlement
Marstrand has had many names throughout its long history, perhaps not surprising since the town was founded back in the 13th century by a Norwegian king, then falling under Danish rule until the Roskilde Peace Treaty of 1658. A visit to the Carlsten Fort on the hill overlooking town will give you some clues to the town’s military past and the clashes between Danish and Swedish forces.
For centuries, Marstrand’s prosperity lay in its abundant herring catch, and by the end of the 17th century it had gained the status of a free port, which attracted all kinds of dubious characters—up to 500 felons by some counts. But in the 19th century “sea bathing” came into fashion with the upper class, and the city enjoyed a resurgence of affluence.
Today this vivid seaside town has fewer rogues and more well-heeled hobby sailors who flock to the port to watch the sailing regattas, like the prestigious Swedish Match Cup. The occasional member of the Royal Family may also be spotted in the summer crowds.
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