Virtual Countries Travel Blog

Journey Back in Time in Denmark

The Frederiksborg Castle is situated in the municipality of Hillerød, in the Region Hovedstaden of Denmark. This magnificent castle occupies three islets in the Castle Lake, which is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. The National History Museum housed in Frederiksborg Castle presents the history and the history-makers of Denmark.

The oldest sections of the Frederiksborg Castle were built in 1560 for King Frederick II, for whom the castle is named. The greater part of the castle was built in 1600-1620 by King Christian IV, the son of King Frederick II. Christian IV favored the Dutch Renaissance style of architecture, with sweeping gables, copper-clad roofs and spires and intricate sandstone decorations. The Frederiksborg Castle is considered to be the largest and most superb example of a Renaissance castle in Scandinavia.

The Baroque Garden, which lies north of the castle, has formal structured avenues fringed with trees and shrubs. Flower beds add splashes of color throughout the garden, which is symmetrically designed around a central axis extending from the castle. Visitors should take some time to stroll beyond the Baroque Garden to enjoy the landscaped gardens with lakes and ancient trees.

After the death of Christian IV in 1648, the castle was kept in good repair, but was mainly the venue for ceremonial events, including the anointing and crowning of Monarchs in the Castle Church. The historic Treaty of Frederiksborg was signed at the castle in 1720. In the 1850s the castle was once again occupied by Danish Royalty, when King Frederik VII took up residence. On the night of 16 December 1859 a fire destroyed a significant part of the interior of the main palace. Reconstruction of the castle was jointly funded by the King, public subscription and renowned philanthropist J.C. Jacobsen of the Carlsberg Brewery. Jacobsen also put forward the funds for the establishment of the Museum of National History, which today is a major tourist attraction in the area.

The Museum of National History at Frederiksborg Castle incorporates an outstanding collection of portraits and historical paintings, as well as prints and drawings. The museum, which was opened in 1878, also features a superb collection of decorative art and furniture. The castle buildings and richly adorned interiors give visitors the unique opportunity to learn about Danish history, right from the latter part of the fifteenth century up to the present day. The present day collection features contemporary artworks, including sculptures and paintings by renowned Danish artists.

Tourists who are traveling in Denmark, and would like to gain insight into the fascinating history of the country, should make a point of visiting the magnificent Frederiksborg Castle.

Europe