The Bastion Sankt Erik was built in the 16th century and was Sweden's most important defensive stronghold in the southeast. However, as early as the beginning of the 17th century, the Danes took the stronghold, the city of Kalmar was moved to Kvarnholmen, and the bastion began to decay. Eventually, the walls were upgraded to today's appearance. Villa Skansen, located on the fortifications, was built in the 1880s as one of the first large villas in this district. Today, both the bastion and the villa belong to our cultural heritage.
Kalmarsundsparken, which stretches along the beach south of the castle, has one of our most popular beaches close to the city, with a 180-meter long bridge out into Kalmarsund. Farthest to the south, there is a large popular beach sports facility. In Kalmarsundsparken, a completely untouched hidden battlefield from the 17th century has recently been discovered! Remains of Danish soldiers, as well as weapons and ammunition, have been found here.