 The site was chosen by Baltzar von Platen in connection with the construction of Göta Canal.The intent of the central defense idea was that the King, the Council, the Riksdag and central command functions would, in the event of an attack against the kingdom, pull back and ensconce themselves in this fortress in the middle of the country.Even the gold reserves of the central bank of Sweden were to be safeguarded in the fortress in times of trouble.