Ismantorp Fortress

The castle Ismantorp (Swedish Ismantorps borg ) is one of 16, now mostly ruined hill forts on the Swedish island of Öland. It is located in the middle of Öland, between the villages Rälla and Långlöt in the community Borgholm.

The first mention of the castle took place in 1634. Carl Linnaeus 100 years later undertook a botanical view of the island, drew attention to the ramparts. His travel notes were published in 1745 under the title Öländska och Gothländska Resa.

The function of this system, of which only the outer stone wall with 125 m diameter and the foundation outlines of the once 88 houses, largely remained inside the wall, getting, there are several theories. • Although the extensive fortifications a suspect defense, but this is difficult to secure through their nine goals. Therefore Ismantorp is compared with Slavic castles that the later medieval towns, sheltered dwelling and religious center were similar. Even a function as a refuge comes in this investment into account. Archaeological finds from 2000 suggest a use between 300 and 500 AD close Chr.