Frederikshald

Frederikshald, a fortified seaport of Norway, on the Idde fjord, near the Swedish border, 85 miles by rail SSE. of Christiania. Having been burned down in 1826, it was rebuilt in modern style, with broad and regular streets. Its inhabitants trade in timber. To the south-east of the town stands the fortress of Frederiksteen, built in 1661, which, though often assaulted, has never yet been taken. Charles XII. of Sweden was killed in the trenches before this fortress on 11th December 1718. A little farther to the east stands the fort of Gyldenløve, which has played an important part in the wars between Sweden and Norway. It is now, however, of little consequence. Formerly called Halden, Frederikshald received its present name from King Frederick III. of Denmark. Pop. (1876) 9913; (1891) 11,219.