Amalienborg is a stunning palace complex located in the heart of Copenhagen, Denmark. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city and a must-see for anyone interested in Danish history and culture.
Amalienborg is the official residence of the Danish Royal Family, making it a significant landmark and symbol of the country's monarchy. The palace complex consists of four palaces arranged in a square, facing each other with an octagonal courtyard in the center. The palace complex faces the harbor, and its iconic statue of King Frederik V on horseback stands proudly in front of the palaces.
History and Architecture of Amalienborg
Amalienborg was built in the 18th century during the reign of King Frederik V. King Frederik V wanted to create a royal residence that was grander and more impressive than any other in Europe, and so he commissioned the renowned architect Nicolai Eigtved to design the palaces. Unfortunately, Eigtved passed away before the completion of the project – but his designs were continued by other architects.
The four palaces that make up the complex were built in the Rococo architectural style and each palace has its own unique design. The palaces are connected by a courtyard and each palace has a balcony that overlooks the harbour. The facades of the palaces are decorated with sculptures, carvings, and ornamental designs. The palaces were named after each of King Frederik V's sons: Christian VII's Palace, Christian VIII's Palace, Christian IX's Palace, and Frederik VIII's Palace.
Originally, the palaces were built as residences for four noble families. However, Amalienborg became royal residence after a fire in Christiansborg in 1794 where the royal family used to live. The king acquired the mansions of Moltke and Schack in a few days. The mansions are still used to this day by the Danish Royal Family.
Changing of the Guard
One of the most popular attractions at Amalienborg is the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place daily at noon. The ceremony involves the Royal Guard marching from their barracks to the palace courtyard, where they perform a drill and handover of the duty. Visitors can watch the ceremony from the courtyard or from the street outside the palace.
Other Castles in Copenhagen - Kronborg, Rosenborg, Christiansborg, and Frederiksborg
In addition to Amalienborg, there are a number of other castles in Copenhagen. Kronborg Castle is a popular destination and is known for its stunning architecture and rich history. The castle is also home to the famous play, "Hamlet", which was written by William Shakespeare.
Rosenborg Castle is another popular destination and is home to a large collection of royal artefacts, including coins, medals, paintings, and porcelain. Christiansborg Palace is a stunning example of Renaissance architecture and is home to the Danish Parliament.
Lastly, Frederiksborg Castle can be found in the North of Copenhagen. The castle is situated on an accessible island in the middle of a lake and is home to a number of historic buildings and gardens.
Tips for Visiting Amalienborg
Visiting Amalienborg is a great way to explore the beauty of Copenhagen and learn about the history of the city. Here are some tips for visiting Amalienborg:
- Plan ahead and make sure to book tickets for the guided tours in advance.
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as the palace complex is quite large.
- Bring a camera to take pictures of the palaces and the harbor views.
- Be sure to explore the other castles in Copenhagen, such as Kronborg, Rosenborg, Christiansborg, and Frederiksborg.
Conclusion
Amalienborg is a true gem of Copenhagen, offering visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Danish Royal Family. The stunning architecture, rich history, and daily Changing of the Guard ceremony make it a must-see attraction for any traveler to Copenhagen. So, next time you're in Copenhagen, make sure to visit Amalienborg and experience the grandeur of Danish royalty for yourself.
