The Area

Plenty to see

Above ground, there’s also plenty to see. You’re welcome to wander around on your own. We have a permanent exhibition with military equipment, ranging from vehicles and cannons to tents and field kitchens.

At the top of the mountain, there are three 15.2 cm guns m/51 in double mounts (Turret twin guns). The guns were manufactured by Bofors on the order of the King of Siam (present-day Thailand), intended to be placed on cruisers being built in Trieste, Italy. In total, six guns were built, but due to World War II export restrictions, the guns remained in Sweden and were converted to coastal artillery. Three of them landed at Bungenäs (Gotland) and three with us at Hemsön. For this conversion, it was necessary to install converter units to convert alternating current from the chamber to the guns’ direct current, as naval guns use direct current. The guns had a range of 12 km with charge (1) and 22 km with charge (2) (less accuracy with this one). The shells were of various types, armor-piercing and explosive shells, with a shell weight of 46 kg. Firing rate 4-5 shots/minute. Each gun had a crew of 25 men. The guns were directed from the fire control center in the mountain using ARTE 724. The guns were used from 1956 until the facility closed.

The shell protection also included 75 rifle pits and six mortar positions placed over a large area on the mountain’s summit, manned by ground combat troops. You’ll find their beds in the blue corridor underground.

The exhibition is signposted, and don’t hesitate to ask our staff if you have any questions.

Last but not least, our marvelous view of the High Coast and the sea!