The cobblestone street that runs through the gate has been there since 1567

Through the arched stone gate, a bridge reveals itself, a way out of the embrace of the past and into the light of modern street lamps. The cobblestones beneath my feet are uneven, polished by countless footsteps, by soldiers, merchants, women with baskets full of goods, children running, and horses trudging through the many chapters of history.
 These stones have been witnesses to the soul of Fredrikstad, from sieges to peacetime, from times of prosperity to trials. They have known the weight of rusty swords and happy celebrations, the sorrow of tears and the hope of hearts. And yet, in all this time, there was one man who was never allowed to walk over them – King Fredrik II, the one after whom the fortress is named, but who, ironically, was never allowed to set foot here.
 Now night rests over this ancient place, and the golden light from the street lamps casts warm reflections on the worn cobblestones. The gate stands open, and outside, over the bridge, another Fredrikstad awaits – a city life in constant change, a future built on this powerful history. But the cobblestones? They will always remember, always whisper their stories to those who take the time to listen.