Holmegaard Glassworks
Sjælland
Holmegaard Glassworks, founded in 1825 near Fensmark on the island of Zealand, is one of Denmark's oldest and most renowned glass manufacturers. Established by Count Christian Conrad Sophus Danneskiold-Samsøe's widow, the factory initially produced bottles before expanding into household glass, artistic, and industrial glassware. Over the centuries, it evolved into a symbol of Danish design excellence, collaborating with famous designers like Jacob E. Bang and Per Lütken. The factory's modernist complex, designed in 1972 by Svenn Eske Kristensen, is an architectural landmark. Today, Holmegaard operates as a museum called Holmegaard Værk, exhibiting a vast collection of over 40,000 glass pieces and offering visitors live demonstrations of traditional glassmaking techniques. The museum also invites guests to engage hands-on by trying glass grinding themselves. Holmegaard Glassworks represents a unique blend of industrial heritage, artistic innovation, and cultural significance, making it a captivating destination for design and craft enthusiasts.
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Tip: The best time to visit Holmegaard Glassworks is during weekdays in spring or early autumn to avoid crowds. Advance booking is recommended for workshops or guided tours, especially during special exhibitions. Discounts are often available for students, seniors, and groups. Visitors should check the official website for current opening hours and any seasonal events. Comfortable clothing is advised for participating in hands-on activities.
Interesting facts
- •Holmegaard Glassworks has a collection of over 40,000 glass products, making it one of the largest glass collections in Denmark.
- •The factory's modernist building was designed by renowned architect Svenn Eske Kristensen in 1972.
- •Jacob E. Bang, a famous Danish designer, served as artistic leader from 1928 to 1941 and influenced much of Holmegaard's iconic glass design.
- •The glassworks originally started with just one furnace and produced only bottles until expanding production in 1832.
- •Holmegaard was part of Royal Copenhagen from 1985 until the packaging division was sold off in 1995.
History
Holmegaard Glassworks was founded in 1825 following Count Christian Conrad Sophus Danneskiold-Samsøe's 1823 petition to establish a glass factory on his estate's bog land.
Initially focused on bottle production, it expanded to household and artistic glass by the 1830s.
The factory was led by notable figures including Edvard Jünger (1873-1884) and later members of the Danneskiold-Samsøe family.
In 1936, it became a joint-stock company under director Christian Grauballe.
The factory merged with Royal Copenhagen in 1985, and after various ownership changes and a bankruptcy in 2008, the Holmegaard brand was acquired by Rosendahl A/S.
The site was revitalized and reopened as Holmegaard Værk museum in 2020.
Place Guide
Main Exhibition Hall
Features a vast display of Holmegaard's historic and contemporary glass products, showcasing the evolution of Danish glass design from the 19th century to present.
Glassblowing Workshop
Live demonstrations by skilled glassmakers illustrating traditional glassblowing techniques. Visitors can watch the creative process from molten glass to finished art pieces.
Modernist Factory Building1972
The factory complex built in 1972, designed by architect Svenn Eske Kristensen, is a notable example of sculptural modernism and an architectural icon in the region.
Contact
Phone: 70 70 12 36
