The world's oldest monarchy
Denmark has one of Europe's richest collections of castles and palaces, and together they tell the story of the world's oldest monarchy. The Danish royal line can be traced unbroken back to Gorm the Old in the tenth century, and for more than a thousand years kings and queens have built fortresses, hunting lodges and residences across the country. From medieval defences to Renaissance showpieces and present-day royal homes, they form a living part of Danish identity.
Kronborg – Hamlet's castle on the Øresund
Kronborg near Helsingør is perhaps Denmark's most famous castle, known worldwide as the setting of William Shakespeare's tragedy about Prince Hamlet. The castle was built in its present Renaissance form between 1574 and 1585 under Frederick II and was strategically placed at the narrowest point of the Øresund strait, where it collected the famous Sound Dues from every ship that passed. In 2000 Kronborg was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. In the castle's casemates sits the statue of the legendary Holger Danske, who according to legend will awaken if Denmark is ever threatened.
Frederiksborg – Scandinavia's largest Renaissance castle
In Hillerød stands Frederiksborg Castle, the largest Renaissance castle in Scandinavia, built on three islets in a lake. It was erected in the early seventeenth century under Christian IV, Denmark's great builder-king. After a devastating fire in 1859, the castle was rebuilt thanks in part to the brewer J.C. Jacobsen, founder of Carlsberg. Today Frederiksborg houses the Museum of National History with Denmark's largest collection of portraits and historical paintings. The chapel and the magnificent Great Hall with its carved ceilings are among the grandest rooms in the country.
Egeskov – Europe's best-preserved moated castle
On the island of Funen you will find Egeskov Castle, the best-preserved Renaissance water castle in Europe. The castle was built in 1554 in the middle of a lake and rests on thousands of oak piles driven into the lakebed – hence the name Egeskov, meaning oak forest. Its two towers, double walls and position in the water made the castle almost impregnable in troubled times. Today Egeskov is one of Denmark's most visited attractions with magnificent gardens, a famous hedge maze and several museums.
Copenhagen – royal residences in the capital
The capital is home to several of the realm's most important castles:
- Rosenborg Castle was built as a summer residence by Christian IV in the early seventeenth century and today houses the Danish crown jewels and regalia, which are still used at coronations and official occasions.
- Amalienborg consists of four identical Rococo palaces around an octagonal square and is the winter residence of the Danish royal family. The changing of the Royal Life Guards is a popular sight every day at noon.
- Christiansborg on the islet of Slotsholmen is the seat of Parliament, the Supreme Court and the Prime Minister's Office, making it the only building in the world that houses all three branches of government. The royal reception rooms are still used for state visits.
More royal gems
Beyond the great names there is a series of smaller but equally charming castles. Gråsten Palace in Southern Jutland is the royal family's summer residence, known for its beautiful gardens, which Queen Ingrid tended with great care. Marselisborg Palace near Aarhus is the royal family's residence in Jutland and opens its parks to the public whenever the family is not in residence. Together these castles paint a picture of a country where the monarchy still plays a central and popular role.
A journey through time
To visit Denmark's castles is to travel through the country's history, from medieval power struggles through the splendour of absolutism to the modern constitutional monarchy. Many of the castles lie within a short distance of Copenhagen and can be visited on day trips, while others require a journey to Funen or Jutland. Whichever you choose, they offer a unique insight into the culture and traditions that have shaped Denmark for more than a thousand years.