Christiansborg Palace
Hovedstaden
Christiansborg Palace, located on the islet of Slotsholmen in central Copenhagen, is a unique building that houses all three branches of Danish government: the executive, legislative, and judicial powers. It serves as the seat of the Danish Parliament (Folketinget), the Prime Minister's Office, and the Supreme Court, while also accommodating the Danish monarch in its Royal Reception Rooms, Palace Chapel, and Royal Stables. The current palace is the third structure on this site, with a history dating back to the first castle built by Bishop Absalon in 1167. Over centuries, Christiansborg has been the center of Denmark's central administration and monarchy. The palace architecture reflects three different eras due to two major fires in 1794 and 1884, with the main building completed in 1928 in a Neo-baroque style, the chapel dating to 1826 in neoclassical style, and the showgrounds built in the Baroque style between 1738 and 1746. The palace is owned by the Danish government and managed by the Palaces and Properties Agency. Visitors can explore several parts of the palace, including excavated ruins of earlier castles beneath the current structure, offering a rich historical and cultural experience.
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Tip: Visitors should consider visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds and experience the palace's political atmosphere. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially for guided tours of the Royal Reception Rooms and the subterranean ruins. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Check the official website for current opening hours and special events.
Interesting facts
- •Christiansborg Palace is the only building in the world that houses all three branches of a country's government: executive, legislative, and judicial.
- •The palace is colloquially known as 'Borgen' or 'Rigsborgen', meaning 'the castle of the realm'.
- •Ruins of the original Absalon's Castle and Copenhagen Castle can be visited beneath the current palace.
- •The palace architecture combines Neo-baroque, neoclassical, and Baroque styles due to multiple reconstructions.
- •Parts of the palace are still used by the Danish monarch, including royal reception rooms and stables.
History
The site of Christiansborg Palace was originally home to Absalon's Castle, built in 1167 by Bishop Absalon.
After a prolonged conflict between the crown and church, the castle was demolished by the Hanseatic League in 1370.
Subsequently, Copenhagen Castle was constructed on the ruins and became the royal residence in the 15th century.
Due to structural issues, it was demolished in 1731 to make way for the first Christiansborg Palace, commissioned by King Christian VI.
The palace has since been rebuilt twice following major fires in 1794 and 1884, with the current Neo-baroque structure completed in 1928.
Throughout its history, Christiansborg has remained central to Denmark's governance and royal representation.
Place Guide
Ruins of Absalon's Castle and Copenhagen Castle12th century and later
Visitors can explore the subterranean excavations beneath Christiansborg Palace, where the ruins of the original 12th-century Absalon's Castle and the later Copenhagen Castle are displayed. These ruins offer insight into the early history of Copenhagen and Denmark's medieval power struggles.
Royal Reception Rooms1928 (current palace)
These rooms are used by the Danish monarch for official functions and state events. They are richly decorated and showcase Danish art and craftsmanship, reflecting the palace's royal heritage.
Palace Chapel1826
Dating back to 1826, the Palace Chapel is designed in neoclassical style and remains in use for royal ceremonies and services. It is one of the few parts of the palace that survived the great fires.
Royal Stables and Showgrounds1738-1746
Constructed between 1738 and 1746 in Baroque style, the Royal Stables and showgrounds are part of the original first Christiansborg Palace. Today, they house royal horses and carriages and include the Hofteatret, a small court theatre museum.
Contact
Phone: 73 70 73 10
