Did you know that Ny Rosenborg was once a summer palace? This stunning Renaissance castle stands before you a testament to King Christian IV’s ambition and artistic flair. Built between 1606 and 1624 it began as a humble summerhouse. It eventually evolved into the magnificent structure we see today. Architects Bertel Lange and Hans van Steenwinckel the Younger masterfully blended Dutch Renaissance style with Danish traditions.
Ny Rosenborg served as a royal residence until around 1710. After that it was only used twice in emergencies. First after Christiansborg Palace burned down in 1794. Then again during the British attack on Copenhagen in 1801. Imagine the royal family fleeing to this very castle seeking refuge from the chaos. Picture the sounds of cannon fire echoing in the distance.
The interior of Ny Rosenborg is breathtaking. The Long Hall on the third floor initially intended as a ballroom later became a reception room and banquet hall. It wasn’t until the late 19th century that it became known as the Knights’ Hall. Christian V modernized the hall with tapestries depicting his victories. The stucco ceiling showcasing the Danish Coat of Arms and orders of the Elephant and Dannebrog is from the early 18th century. Side reliefs depict events from Frederik IV’s reign. Frescoes by Hendrick Krock portray the Crown Regalia.
Ny Rosenborg’s treasures are legendary. The coronation chair of the absolutist kings and the queens’ throne with its three silver lions are main attractions. The Long Hall boasts an extensive collection of mostly 17th-century silver furniture.
Since 1838 Ny Rosenborg has been open to the public. It now houses a museum showcasing the Royal Collections. These artifacts span a vast period of Danish royal culture. They reveal the tastes and lives of royalty and nobility. The Crown Jewels and Danish Crown Regalia are a major draw for tourists. The Coronation Carpet and the Throne Chair of Denmark are also kept here. In the summertime the castle garden blossoms creating a vibrant setting. The castle gardens are part of Kongens Have the King’s Garden. This is Denmark’s oldest royal garden. Christian IV embellished it in the Renaissance style. Today it attracts millions of visitors annually. The Royal Life Guards are stationed nearby guarding this symbol of Danish royalty.
So next time you’re in Copenhagen don’t miss Ny Rosenborg Castle. It’s more than just a building it’s a living history book. A testament to centuries of Danish royalty.