While visiting Copenhagen, one place you won’t want to miss is Rosenborg Castle. What makes Rosenborg Castle one of Copenhagen’s must-see attractions is the fact that it has been so well preserved and houses some of the best Danish relics.
Rosenborg Castle
Rosenborg Castle was originally built as a country summerhouse in 1606 for one of the most famous Scandinavian Kings, King Christian IV.
Over the next 27 years, it went through extensions and renovations and now stands as the perfect example of the Dutch Renaissance style.
Because Rosenborg Castle was used as a summer home, it is not as large as Christiansborg Palace.
Even so, it will give you a glimpse at what life was like for the Royal family at the time.
Ground Floor of Rosenborg Castle
Winter Room
When you walk into the part of the castle, you will truly feel like you have stepped back in time.
With its dark wooden paneling, it feels less opulent than the upper floors and appears to have a more Medieval vibe.
Even so, it is the best-preserved room and the most important area of the original castle.
Inside the Winter Room, you will find a collection of personal artifacts along with an astronomical clock with a carillon and moveable figures
The Astronomical Clock was built by Swiss watchmaker Isaac Habrecht in 1594.
He was responsible in part for the famous cathedral in Strasbourg. This clock is not original to the home.
It was part of the spoils taken when Frederik IV had captured Gottorf Castle during the Great Northern War.
It was originally in Christiansborg and later brought to Rosenborg Castle.
Christians IV Writing Room
This room looks just like it did in the time of Christian IV (early 17th century). The items in the Writing Room are the family heirlooms of Christian IV.
The centerpiece of the room is the beautiful desk.
This dates back to 1580 and has elaborate reliefs of gilt bronze depicting the 12 Labours of Hercules and the 12 Patriarchs.
The four lion feet have jaws and eyes that actually move.
1st Floor of Rosenborg Castle
Christian VI’s Room
The walls are decorated with tapestries of Alexander the Great and furnishings that were removed from Christiansborg Palace after the fire.
2nd Floor or Rosenborg Castle
The Knight’s Hall
Quite possibly the most glorious of all the rooms in the castle is the Knight’s Hall.
The hall, which was the last room to be furnished (1624) was originally a ballroom.
The focal point of the room is the coronation chairs that are guarded by three silver lions.
The ceiling (18th century) shows the Danish coat of arms surrounded by the Orders of the Elephant and of the Dannebrog.
There are also four large paintings on the ceiling featuring the crown, orb, sword, and scepter.
The Throne is no less spectacular. The throne made for Christian VI’s Audience Chamber at Christiansborg Palace is adorned with silver to show the wealth of the King.
Basement of Rosenborg Castle: Danish Crown Jewels
You will tour the basement last and it is because it is one of the most important areas in the entire castle as it features the Crown Jewels, the Crown Regalia, the Crown of the Absolutist Kings, and the Queens’ Crown.
The crown jewels consist of four parts: a diamond set, a ruby set, a pearl set, and an emerald set.
The Crown Regalia include the Sceptre, Orb, Anointing Rapier and Ampulla. These are all gold and adorned with jewels.
The most important item located in the Treasure is the Crown of the Absolutist Kings. the closed crown features a large sapphire in front that dates back to Frederik I.
Rosenborg Castle Gardens
Before you leave Rosenborg Castle, be sure to walk around the gardens.
In the summer, they are filled with roses, but even in the spring, you will find they are the perfect place to have a picnic or enjoy some time in the sun.
Rosenborg Castle does allow you to bring food and eat on-site.
There are picnic tables, but nothing beats bringing your own blanket and eating on the vast lawn where you can also enjoy the flowers in the gardens.
Why You Should Get The Copenhagen Card
Copenhagen is an expensive city to visit and the Copenhagen card will save you some money and allow you to save time by not having to stand in so many lines.
- Free admission to many popular museums and attractions
- Free public transportation by bus, train and Metro
- Discounts on restaurants, attractions and entertainment
- Cards for up to 2 children under 10 are free
The Copenhagen Card is available as a 24, 48, 72, or 120-hour card both for adults and children.