[2] The development of the town of Horten is closely related to the Royal Norwegian Navy's activity in the area.

By royal decree in 1818, Horten was designated as a military station similar to Fredriksvern (now called Stavern).

The new naval harbor was to be built in the bay that is surrounded by a small peninsula and several islands.

On 23 February 1945, the Nazi-occupied Karljohansvern base was bombed by British aircraft and the shipyard was completely destroyed.

Another option could be that it is derived from the Old Norse word hǫlkn or helkn which means "rocky ground", "shelter", or "place of refuge".

[5][4] Being located out on a peninsula, most major transportation arteries go to the west of Horten, and secondary roads connect the city to these routes.