Voergaard Castle
Nordjylland
Voergaard Castle, located in North Jutland, Denmark, is a striking Renaissance moated manor house dating back to 1481. It was expanded in the late 16th century by Ingeborg Skeel, whose sandstone portal, gifted by King Frederick II, adds unique architectural value. The castle houses an impressive art collection featuring works attributed to masters such as Francisco Goya, Peter Paul Rubens, Raphael, El Greco, Watteau, and Frans Hals, alongside exquisite furniture once owned by French royalty like Louis XIV and Louis XVI. The estate's history reflects turbulent times, including ownership by Bishop Stygge Krumpen, confiscation by the Crown after the Reformation, and later acquisition by notable figures such as politician Peder Brønnum Scavenius and Danish Prime Minister Erik Scavenius. In the mid-20th century, Ejnar Oberbech-Clausen brought an extensive French art collection to Voergaard and restored the castle, which is now open to the public. Visitors can explore the castle’s moats, dungeons, and the surrounding French-style park, enriched with historical buildings like the manor court used for local justice. The castle also hosts events like medieval markets and Christmas celebrations, enhancing its cultural appeal.
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Tip: For the best experience, visit during the castle's opening season and consider booking guided tours in advance to fully appreciate the art and history. The medieval market in week 29 offers a lively cultural event. Discounts may be available for groups and seniors. The onsite café and shop provide local specialties and souvenirs. Check the official website for current opening hours and special events.
Interesting facts
- •The sandstone portal at Voergaard was originally crafted for Frederiksborg Castle and gifted by King Frederick II.
- •The castle’s art collection includes works attributed to renowned painters like Francisco Goya and Peter Paul Rubens.
- •Ingeborg Skeel, who expanded the castle, is reputed locally as a tyrannical figure and is said to haunt Voergaard as a ghost.
- •Two paintings attributed to Goya and Rubens were stolen from the castle's collection in 2008, though their attributions remain disputed.
- •Voergaard was one of Denmark's largest estates in the early 20th century, covering nearly 2,000 hectares under Peder Brønnum Scavenius.
- •The castle park was redesigned in the French style in 1955, reflecting the tastes of its then-owner, Ejnar Oberbech-Clausen.
History
Voergaard Castle's origins trace back to 1481, with its earliest recorded owner being Anders Pedersen.
In 1510, it was transferred to Bishop Stygge Krumpen.
During the Count's Feud in 1534, it was captured by Skipper Clement's peasant army and later confiscated by the Crown after the Reformation in 1536.
In 1578, King Frederick II granted the estate to Karen Krabbe, whose daughter Ingeborg Skeel completed the Renaissance expansion by 1588.
Over the centuries, the manor changed hands multiple times, with significant restoration and land reacquisition by Peder Brønnum Scavenius in the late 19th century.
In the 20th century, it was owned by Danish Prime Minister Erik Scavenius before being purchased by Ejnar Oberbech-Clausen in 1955, who restored the castle and enriched it with a notable art collection.
Place Guide
The East Wing and Sandstone Portal1588
The east wing features two octagonal corner towers and a gateway with a sandstone portal originally intended for Frederiksborg Castle, gifted by King Frederick II. This portal is a prime example of Renaissance stonework and a focal point of the castle’s architecture.
Art Collection
The castle houses an extensive art collection with works attributed to masters such as Francisco Goya, Peter Paul Rubens, Raphael, El Greco, Watteau, and Frans Hals. Furniture includes pieces that once belonged to Louis XIV and Louis XVI, as well as items linked to Marie Antoinette and Napoleon.
The Moat and Dungeon
Visitors can explore the castle’s moats and the dungeon, where local lore speaks of haunting bloodstains and ghost stories tied to the castle’s turbulent past.
The French-style Park1955
Originally laid out in 1768 and redesigned in 1955, the large park surrounding Voergaard Castle features classic French formal garden elements, enhancing the estate’s grandeur and providing scenic walking paths.
Contact
Phone: 98 86 71 08
