Round Tower

If you're wondering about the story behind the Round Tower, what its purpose was, when it was built, who built it or whether it's worth a visit, you've come to the right place. In this article, I'll cover these things and much more. If you're more into the practical stuff, jump right to opening hours and directions for The Round Tower.

If you want to go even deeper, consider downloading the StoryHunt app. We have stories all over the world, including the Round Tower, available as both audio and text, right in your pocket – download StoryHunt for free.

What is the History Behind The Round Tower?

Picture this: the year is 1642 and the city of Copenhagen is about to embark on a momentous feat — the construction of the Round Tower (Rundetaarn).

Originally built as an astronomical observatory, it became a critical site for studying the stars during the Scientific Revolution. At the time, Denmark was eager to make strides in scientific discovery, and the Round Tower played a vital role in the nation's academic life.

One of the tower’s most notable features is its wide, spiraling ramp, designed to accommodate scholars and their heavy equipment. Over the centuries, the tower hosted many prominent scientists, including Ole Rømer, who famously calculated the speed of light.

Beyond its scientific use, the Round Tower was a popular public attraction, with Copenhagen’s citizens often visiting to take in views of the city. Today, it stands as one of the oldest functioning observatories in Europe and a testament to Denmark’s early contributions to the world of science, blending history with modern-day exploration.

It even appears in Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale The Tinderbox, where he whimsically compares the eyes of a massive dog to the size of the Round Tower. In fact, the Round Tower was one of the first places the young Andersen visited when he came to Copenhagen. He even borrowed books from the university library and is said to have found inspiration for many of his fairytales within this old tower.

What Was the Purpose of The Round Tower?

The Round Tower was meant to be more than just a distinctive figure in the Copenhagen skyline. Its creation was a sign of progress, of knowledge, and of the ambitions of a nation standing tall in the face of the Renaissance period. The primary purpose of the Round Tower was to house the University of Copenhagen's astronomical observatory.

On top of that, the Round Tower served as a library of the Trinitatis Church, providing a serene and intellectual home for religious and other texts. Apart from all that, it also served as a way for King Christian IV to impress the European nobility – but more on him later.

When Was The Round Tower Built?

The Round Tower was took five years to complete and stood finished in 1642. During this time, Copenhagen was a bustling port city, rapidly expanding in size and influence. Denmark, under the rule of King Christian IV, was striving to become a leading European power. The country was heavily involved in trade, its economy bolstered by a powerful navy and a growing merchant class. Copenhagen itself was undergoing significant development, with new buildings and fortifications transforming the city’s skyline.

This was also a time of intellectual and scientific curiosity across Europe, often referred to as the Scientific Revolution. Denmark wanted to be at the forefront of this movement, and the capital became a hub for learning and research. The construction of the Round Tower reflected the city's ambition to advance science, particularly in astronomy, a field that was gaining importance with the exploration of new worlds and better understanding of the cosmos.

Who Built The Round Tower in Copenhagen?

The Round Tower in Copenhagen was built by King Christian IV, one of Denmark’s most famous and ambitious rulers. In the early 17th century, he dreamed of making Copenhagen a center for science and learning. To do this, he needed a place for astronomers to study the stars. So, in 1637, he ordered the construction of the Round Tower, or Rundetaarn, as part of a larger university complex.

But this wasn’t just any tower. Christian IV wanted something unique. He designed the tower with a wide, spiraling ramp instead of stairs, so horses could carry heavy equipment up to the top. It was an architectural feat at the time. Scholars, astronomers, and curious locals all visited the tower to glimpse the heavens through its grand observatory. Today, the Round Tower still stands tall, a lasting symbol of Christian IV’s bold vision for Copenhagen’s future.

King Christian IV also build other notable buildings in Copenhagen, including Rosenborg Castle and the surrounding King's Garden which is not very far from The Round Tower. To get an overview of all the attractions, download the StoryHunt app for free.

Is the Round Tower worth it?

Absolutely, the Round Tower in Copenhagen is worth visiting, and here's why: it's not just a historical site, but a full experience. The spiral ramp that winds up the tower is unlike anything you'll find elsewhere, making the walk to the top a fun and memorable adventure. As you ascend, you can visit the small exhibitions and art galleries inside, adding more depth to your visit.

Once you reach the top, you're rewarded with stunning 360-degree views of Copenhagen’s rooftops and landmarks. It’s the perfect spot for panoramic photos and taking in the city’s beauty from above – if you're lucky you might just catch the sunset like the picture above. The tower also has a small glass floor, giving you a unique glimpse of the inner structure.

Whether you're into history, architecture, or just looking for great views, the Round Tower combines all of that in one visit. Plus, it's right in the heart of Copenhagen and close to many of the top attractions in Copenhagen, so it's easy to include in your trip.

Want to Unlock the Stories of Copenhagen?

Your exploration of the city should not be confined to a single stop. With the wealth of history and culture that Copenhagen has to offer, StoryHunt can be your reliable partner in this journey. If the Round Tower piqued your interest, then you are going to find these next few treasures equally enchanting:

1. The Rosenborg Castle: Dive deep into the grandeur of Danish royalty and discover an invaluable collection of crown jewels and royal artifacts.
2. The Christiansborg Palace: Step onto these monumental grounds to witness the Danish Parliament, Supreme Court and Ministry of State in operation.
3. King's Garden: Take a stroll through Denmark’s rich heritage and history while enjoying a coffee or beer – yes you can drink alcohol in the park.

Download the StoryHunt app to immerse yourself in the curated narratives of these spellbinding places that stretch far beyond typical tourist sightseeing. With our self-guided audio walks, you're sure to have a memorable and rewarding adventure on your next visit to Copenhagen.