Christiansborg Palace | Royal Palace in Copenhagen

Christiansborg Palace, located at Slotsholmen in Copenhagen, is both a palace and government building. It is a former royal palace which today also contains the Danish Parliament, The Supreme Court, and the Ministry of State. Here you can visit the state rooms and walk in the footsteps of royalty. Christiansborg Palace is one of many Royal Palaces and Castles in Copenhagen.

So, if you're wondering What to do in Copenhagen? we recommend you to visit Christiansborg, or as some would call it: the beating heart of Denmark! The name is off course not without reason and here is why this royal palace is something special.

What is the Story Behind Christiansborg Palace?

Let us travel back in time to the 12th century, the birth of our curious castle. The history of Christiansborg Castle is as dramatic and colourful as the famed coloured buildings of Copenhagen. The current structure is actually the third iteration and each edition carries tales of power, defeat, and relentless spirit.

The first Christiansborg fell victim to two ravaging fires, transforming the castle to ash. But, each time, the Danish did not surrender; they rebuilt. On this historic site, the phoenix found a home, rising from the ashes to be better, stronger — a true testament to the ever-evolving history of Denmark's political scene.

Christiansborg Palace is one of four palaces in the city center of Copenhagen. A walk from Christiansborg will also take you to Rosenborg Castle and Amalienborg Palace, with Frederiksberg Palace just a few metro stops away.

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Embrace the local lifestyle! When visiting Christiansborg Palace, stop by The Royal Library Gardens, a small oasis located on Slotsholmen, between Christiansborg Palace and the Royal Library. It's a wonderful spot for a break, and if you fancy, take in the beauty of the Royal Library. Just keep it hushed – locals often use it as a quiet study space.

What is Christiansborg Used For?

Today, Christiansborg Castle flexes its muscles as the house of Danish parliamentary power. Some would call it the beating heart of Denmark — and not without reason. You’re not just seeing a historic monument but one that's alive and breathing, swarming with politicians, policymakers, and royalty. It accommodates the Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court, and the Ministry of State and, at times, the Queen utilizes parts of it for royal events—an amalgamation of legislative, executive, and judiciary powers under one baroque roof.

What is Special About Christiansborg?

Situated on the island of Slotsholmen, right in the heart of Copenhagen lies Christiansborg Castle. This is the Danish Parliament, also known as the Folketing.

Christiansborg Castle is fascinating not only because of its rich history and contemporary significance; its architectural narrative is equally compelling. Beneath it lie the mysterious ruins of Absalon's Castle, while the northern wing boasts luxurious royal chambers. Christiansborg represents a unique blend of historical and modern architecture, offering a remarkable visual experience.

The Queen's Tapestries in the Great Hall

The Great Hall stands as the palace's most magnificent space, home to the tapestries commissioned for Queen Margrethe II.

To celebrate Queen Margrethe II's 50th birthday in 1990, the Danish business sector commissioned 11 exquisite tapestries. Artist Bjørn Nørgaard created the detailed sketches that served as the basis for these tapestries, which chronicle 1000 years of Danish history.

The Royal Reception Rooms, including the opulent Alexandra Hall for official dinners, are also used by the Prime Minister for state visits. Visitors with Royal Reception Rooms tickets can enjoy a complimentary guided tour, offering a deeper insight into the palace's history. Additionally, Christiansborg Palace offers tours of its intriguing underground ruins, dating back to the Middle Ages, and a fascinating visit to the castle's historic kitchens, enhanced with auditory and visual recreations.

Continue exploring royal Denmark

If you're looking to explore royal castles outside of Copenhagen, these incredible castles can be found within an hour's journey from the capital:

• Fredensborg Palace: Known as the Royal Family's spring and autumn residence. The palace's Baroque garden is a masterpiece of symmetry and precision, perfect for a peaceful walk.
• Kronborg Castle: Famous worldwide as the setting for Shakespeare's Hamlet. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers impressive Renaissance architecture and dramatic stories from Denmark's past.
• Frederiksborg Castle: This castle is a picturesque representation of Danish Renaissance architecture and houses The Museum of National History, which tells the story of Denmark through a rich collection of art.
• The Hermitage Palace: Located in Dyrehaven, a large park with wild deer, the palace was used for royal hunting parties. It is known for its unique architecture and beautiful views of the surroundings.

Each of these castles offers a unique insight into Denmark's royal history and culture, each with its own charm and beauty.