I sometimes wish that I lived in a land where ancient and medieval castles dotted the landscape, where crowned jewels were on display for hungry eyes in subterranean vaults, and where tourists from all over the world flocked to immerse themselves in our history. Unfortunately, the United States is still in its infancy when compared to other countries around the world and my current hometown is less than 200 years old. Maybe this is why I was so excited to visit the Rosenborg Castle in Copenhagen, Denmark a few years back. Was it to play out a romantic day dream, was I swept up in the reality that I was actually in Denmark, or was I in disbelief that stuff like this actually exists in real life? Whatever the case was, I couldn’t wait to explore the Rosenborg Castle and finally step foot in a real castle (aside from the Cinderella Castle in Disneyland).
Brief History of Rosenborg Castle
Christian IV, king of Denmark and Norway, began construction on the Rosenborg Castle in the early 17th century and quickly became his favorite castle and residence. Known quite famously as a heavy-drinking man, Christian IV focused his efforts on economically strengthening Copenhagen, erecting several castles and fine buildings, strengthening the navy and shipyards, and even founding several cities that are still around today, such as Oslo. The Rosenborg Castle housed many important events during Christian IV’s time, including his death in 1648 at the age of 72. He is remembered as one of Denmark’s most “colorful” and progressive rulers.
Touring Rosenborg Castle
Normally I’m not a huge fan of guided tours and prefer to wander about at my own pace, but sometimes it’s a necessary evil. Such is the case at the Rosenborg Castle: you have to pay to get inside and take a tour. Purchase your ticket at the ticketing office, located just outside of the castle, and get ready to drop almost everything into a locker. If you’re carrying anything short of a fanny pack, be prepared to lock it away in one of the free lockers provided. You can bring in your camera, and trust me when I tell you that you’ll want to.
The tour lasts about an hour and costs 110DKK, which roughly comes to $18USD. The tour consists of two parts: the treasury and the residence. You’ll have to forgive my one picture that I have of the treasury, as I was only shooting with my iPhone 4 with sub-par lighting.
Continuing through the residence, you’ll be treated to rooms dedicated to specific Kings and Queens, from Christian IV down until Frederik VII, the last of the Oldenborg family who died in 1863.
And after looking at relics that you never heard about before, tapestries that you can’t understand, and busts of Danish history, you finally come to it: the throne room. The Lion’s Lair where you feel like you’ve been transported back in time. The throne chairs that are constantly guarded by 3 silver lions that were used during coronations.
But you want to know what my favorite part about Rosenborg Castle was? The grounds. My friends and I wandered aimlessly around Rosenborg Castle Gardens for almost as long as we toured the actual castle. Originally built as a private garden for Christian IV, the gardens are now a favorite urban park for locals and tourists alike. Grab a gelato from the nearby cafe, park it under one of the numerous trees, and just people-watch.
Imagine Christian IV strolling amongst the flowers, thinking about life and maybe stopping to smell a rose, already planning his next city to build. Visit Rosenborg Castle and take a step back in time.
Have you ever been to Rosenborg Castle? What was your experience like?
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