Glimpse the majestic facade of Rosenborg Castle. Its red brick walls gleam in the sun. This isn’t just a castle it’s a living testament to Danish royalty.
Built in 1606 by Christian IV it began as a summer house. It evolved into a royal residence. Christian IV loved Rosenborg. It quickly became his favourite castle. He hosted many important events there. Over 28 years it underwent four stages of development. The castle we see today was completed in 1633. Such was his affection for Rosenborg that on his deathbed he requested to be transported there.
Rosenborg served as a royal residence until around 1710. After that it was used only twice. Both times were during emergencies. The first was after Christiansborg Palace burned down in 1794. The second was during the British attack on Copenhagen in 1801. The castle houses the Danish Crown Jewels. They are displayed in a special vault in the basement. These jewels are a dazzling collection of diamonds rubies sapphires and pearls. They represent the monarchy’s power.
Inside you’ll find the Knight’s Hall. It was originally a ballroom. Around 1700 it became a reception room and banquet hall. Later it became known as the Knight’s Hall. Christian V modernized it. He added twelve tapestries. They depict his victories in the Scanian War. The stucco ceiling is from the early 18th century. It features the Danish Coat of Arms. The Orders of the Elephant and of Dannebrog are also represented. Side reliefs depict events from the reign of Frederik IV. Frescoes by Hendrick Krock represent the Regalia.
The castle also contains the coronation chair. The throne of the queens is also there. Three silver lions stand guard. The Long Hall holds a large collection of 17th-century silver furniture. Rosenborg opened to the public as a museum in 1838. Today it displays the Royal Collections. These artifacts span centuries of Danish royal culture. They include items that once belonged to the nobility and aristocracy. The castle and its gardens attract millions of visitors every year. The gardens are the oldest royal garden in Denmark. Christian IV embellished them in the Renaissance style. The Royal Life Guards still guard the castle.
Rosenborg Castle. A breathtaking blend of history art and royal splendour. A captivating chapter in Copenhagen’s rich tapestry.