Built with private funds, Garderhøj Fort stands as a testament to a nation’s resolve. It is not just a museum. It’s an experience. Let’s step back in time and explore this fascinating fortress.
Garderhøj Fort was constructed between 1886 and 1892. This fort played an important role in Copenhagen’s defense. The disastrous defeat of 1864 spurred citizens into action. They grew tired of waiting for governmental decisions about the country’s defense. Private citizens created foundations. “Den Frivillige Selvbeskatning til Forsvarets Fremme” was one such foundation. It translates to “The voluntary self-taxation for the promotion of defense”. This foundation gathered 1.5 million Danish kroner between 1885 and 1893. That money built Garderhøj Fort and part of Lyngby Fortress.
Lieutenant Colonel E.J. Sommerfeldt designed the fort. Upon completion, it was leased to the War Ministry. Sommerfeldt retained control over the fort. The fort was in use until 1920. Control was then handed back to the private funders.
In 1921, the ministry leased it again. This time, it served as an ammunition depot. It also became a training ground for police and military. 1996 marked a turning point. The fort was given to the Danish people. An organization was formed to restore it. The fort was in poor condition. Moisture penetrated the walls and ceilings. Financial support from various ministries aided restoration efforts. Garderhøj Fort officially reopened on September 27, 2013.
Garderhøj Fort employed advanced military technology. It featured fixed and disappearing towers. Disappearing towers could be stored almost entirely underground. This offered protection. However, these towers had limited size and armor. The largest guns were two 15 cm iron cannons. They were manufactured in Sweden in 1887. These cannons were fitted in an armored tower. The tower weighs 200 tons. Two French-made disappearing towers housed 75 mm guns. Each tower weighed 19 tons.
Though Denmark remained neutral during World War I, 50,000 soldiers guarded the fortifications. These fortifications surrounded Copenhagen. This was in case of a German attack. Today, Garderhøj Fort is a protected historical monument. It is run by Gentofte Municipality.
Here you can experience soldier life. Imagine cramped beds and the gym. Picture the signalling office. Garderhøj Fortress invites play and activity. Both children and adults can enjoy it. Get close to the fortress’s history. Try out the authentic gun turrets. Explore interactive exhibitions. Experience what it was like to be a soldier in 1915. World War I rumbled beyond Denmark’s borders then.
Experimentarium has developed the education center here. There are plenty of exhibitions. You will find many activities and sensory impressions. The interior of Garderhøj is the best preserved of the Copenhagen fortifications.
Remember the private citizens. They funded this impressive structure. Their commitment ensured Copenhagen’s defense. Their legacy lives on at Garderhøj Fort.