Rosenborg Castle
Hovedstaden
Rosenborg Castle, located in Copenhagen, Denmark, is a remarkable example of Dutch Renaissance architecture commissioned by King Christian IV in 1606. Originally built as a country summerhouse, it was expanded until 1624 to become a royal residence and a symbol of Danish monarchy. The castle is renowned for its richly decorated Long Hall, completed in 1624, featuring tapestries depicting King Christian V's victories and a stunning stucco ceiling showcasing the Danish Coat of Arms and royal orders. Visitors can explore the Royal Collections museum, which displays artifacts from the late 16th to the 19th century, including the Crown Jewels, Danish Crown Regalia, and the Throne Chair of Denmark. The castle is set within Kongens Have (The King's Garden), Denmark's oldest royal garden, designed in the Renaissance style by Christian IV. The garden remains a popular retreat with its symmetrical baroque layout, linden avenues, and numerous sculptures. Rosenborg Castle offers a unique glimpse into Danish royal history and culture, blending architectural beauty with priceless historical treasures.
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Tip: The best time to visit Rosenborg Castle is during spring and summer when the King's Garden is in full bloom, enhancing the castle's picturesque setting. It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid long queues. Visitors can benefit from reduced admission prices for students, seniors, and families. Guided tours are available and recommended to fully appreciate the historical and artistic significance of the castle and its collections.
Interesting facts
- ā¢The Long Hall contains twelve tapestries illustrating King Christian Vās victories in the Scanian War (1675ā1679).
- ā¢The castle houses the Danish Crown Regalia, including the coronation chair and the throne of the queens guarded by three silver lions.
- ā¢Kongens Have, the castle garden, is the oldest royal garden in Denmark and attracts approximately 2.5 million visitors annually.
- ā¢The castle was designed by notable architects Bertel Lange and Hans van Steenwinckel the Younger.
- ā¢The Royal Life Guards are still garrisoned next to the castle and guard it ceremonially.
History
Rosenborg Castle was built starting in 1606 as a summer residence for King Christian IV and completed by 1624.
It served as a royal residence until around 1710 and was used occasionally afterward during emergencies, such as after the Christiansborg Palace fire in 1794 and the British attack in 1801.
Over the centuries, the castle evolved architecturally and functionally, eventually becoming a museum open to the public in 1838, preserving Denmark's royal heritage.
Place Guide
Long Hall1624
Located on the third floor, the Long Hall was originally a ballroom completed in 1624. It later served as a royal reception room and banquet hall. The hall features a stucco ceiling with the Danish Coat of Arms, the Orders of the Elephant and Dannebrog, and frescoes by Hendrick Krock depicting royal regalia. It also displays twelve tapestries commemorating King Christian V's military victories and a large collection of 17th-century silver furniture.
Royal Collections Museum
This museum houses a vast array of royal artifacts dating from the late 16th century to the 19th century, including items that belonged to Danish nobility and aristocracy. Highlights include the Crown Jewels, the Coronation Carpet, and the Throne Chair of Denmark.
Kongens Have (The King's Garden)1606
The castle is surrounded by Kongens Have, Denmark's oldest royal garden, designed in the Renaissance and Baroque styles by King Christian IV. The garden features symmetrical linden-lined avenues, sculptures from various periods, and serves as a popular public park in Copenhagen.
Contact
Phone: 33 15 32 86
