as i walk through the grand entrance Christiansborg Palace At Slotsholmen Castle Island, I was immediately struck by its majestic atmosphere and palatial splendor. I felt as if I was in a movie – everything around me felt so baroque and luxurious! On either side of the foyer, the same façade is ornately supported with its square windows, arched frames, and carved statuettes, all topped by a crown. It seems that these majestic crowns are echoing the royal family context of the palace! Who knew a visit could be so awesome?
Christiansborg Palace is a symbol of the past, paying homage to the royal family who visited the site in the 17th century, before the palace was destroyed by fire. Set on a small island that has remained unchanged since the first castle was built here in the 11th century, the atmosphere remains one of tranquility and seclusion away from the surrounding sea passages.
Towering over the rest of the palace complex, Christiansborg Tower is also the tallest building in the city of Copenhagen – a feat that underscores its grandeur. But the palace is not only a testimony to the past, but also a reminder of current affairs; as it has been the official seat of parliament since Denmark moved its capital from Roskilde to Copenhagen in the 14th century.
As I wandered through the palace’s cobblestone forecourts, I saw a heady mix of royal and political overtones, as well as opulent design and unparalleled architecture. But the most dramatic sight is yet to come—the heroic Absalom on a mighty horse. It was here that Bishop Absalon established a stronghold in 1167 to ward off seafaring pirates. For many centuries castles were built and destroyed on the same site until the fortress that stands today finally emerged from the flames.
The fifth converted Christiansborg Palace stands on the holy site commemorated by the majestic statue of Absalon on horseback. In 1740, the magnificent grounds featuring the Royal Mews, canals and court theater were built. Later, in 1826, the Royal Palace Church was completed. After an unfortunate 17th-century fire forced the royal family to relocate, they found a new home in Amalienborg Palace, which has since become their official residence.
My heart pounded as I stepped beneath the massive metal gates of the stunning Christiansborg Palace, Denmark’s legislative seat, shrouded in identical neoclassical design. For an entry ticket of only 20 euros, I had access to four different areas of the palace, including the magnificent corridors reserved for royal receptions on special occasions. As I eagerly made my way down the cobbled paths, I was ecstatic to embark on a tour of the palace.
What to see at Christiansborg Palace?
A few minutes later, I found myself standing in a room with a sheer blue carpet – what a spectacle! Of course, I had to make sure I had my trusty plastic shoe covers on before I set foot on those plush rugs. After all, protecting carpets from dust is just a matter of courtesy – and let’s face it, these well-decorated staterooms deserve the utmost respect!
Exploring Christiansborg Palace is an amazing experience. It is the largest Scandinavian palace in the world and the only building housing all three government ministries – the Queen’s Office, the Prime Minister’s Office and the National Assembly. On my tour, I was first taken to the Royal Reception – the elegant area where the Queen receives her international guests. Breathtaking!
queen’s reception room
The magnificent Queen’s Reception Room at the prestigious Christiansborg Palace is indeed a sight to behold. Although the royal family resides at Amalienborg Palace, Her Majesty the Queen hosts foreign representatives here from time to time. On these special days, the palace is filled with the hustle and bustle of influential people. But fear not, tourists like us can also experience the grandeur of the Queen’s Reception Room – provided the Queen is not there, of course!
Each reception room is decorated with exquisite paintings, furniture and artwork, most of which were recovered from the magnificent palace of the past eleventh century. A true visual feast, these historically significant items will take your breath away!
Queen Elizabeth II’s Grand Ballroom proudly displays 17 stunning tapestries – a gift from the Danish business community to celebrate her 50th birthday. Meticulously woven and painted by the renowned Bjørn Nørgaard, each meticulously crafted tapestry beautifully depicts a thousand years of Denmark’s history and its impact on the world. Across the hall is the Alexandra Hall, where elegant dinners are held in equally magnificent surroundings.
Oval Throne and Tower Chamber
I took a guided tour of the famous Christiansborg Palace and discovered two of its most revered rooms: the Oval Throne and the Tower. This is where Her Majesty the Queen and the Prime Minister of Denmark manage the affairs of the Kingdom.
As I walked through the stately rooms, I was struck by the abundance of frescoes, couture ceilings and historical artifacts adorning the palace. Each piece is a reminder of the grandeur of this magnificent palace and why it is rightfully the residence of the Danish monarch.
deeper ruins
As I toured the palace, my guide told me stories of the ruins in the distance. It is said that when the craftsmen were laying the foundation, they discovered a curtain wall, behind which was the ruins of an ancient palace! The National Museum of Denmark was soon called in to investigate, and after examining the ruins, the royal family decided to preserve them and open them to the public in 1924. The ruins quickly attracted attention, and to this day you have to enter the inner courtyard through a separate entrance to see the remains of the original castle. What a fascinating story!
Christiansborg Palace royal kitchen
The royal kitchens of Christiansborg Palace are a veritable gourmet’s paradise, where the tantalizing aromas of hundreds of lavish banquets were prepared using the largest collection of copperware in Europe. Indulge your taste buds in this culinary wonderland!
palace church
The Palace Church, a stunning 18th-century building open to the public only on Sundays, is a cornerstone of Copenhagen. A favorite of the Royal Family and Parliament, this restored church in the 1990s is truly worth seeing!
Court Theater
Built in the 17th century, the stunning Christiansborg Palace Court Theater is a charming small arena that has remained in pristine condition since it was built centuries ago! Not only does it have an inviting atmosphere, but it also houses a museum with a truly remarkable collection covering the history of Danish theater from the 17th century to the modern day. As if that wasn’t enough, it’s conveniently located next to the Royal Mews, so you can indulge in a horseback ride after enjoying the glamor of the theatre.
The Danish Theater Museum displays artwork, costumes, set models, designs, drawings and photo illustrations about the history of theatre. It is said that the famous fairy tale writer Andersen also studied in a famous ballet school for a year! Stop by between 12pm and 4pm any day of the week and step back in time to explore fascinating theater history.
Royal Mews
Step back in time and experience the grandeur of the 17th century at the Royal Mews! Here, you can admire the majestic white horse, or indulge in the collection of luxurious carriages. From April to June and from August to March, the Royal Mews are open to the public from 1.30pm to 4pm daily, except Mondays. However, we don’t want you to miss out, so come and join us on a journey through history as the Stables are open daily from 10am to 5pm in July!
Christiansborg palace tower
For a bird’s-eye view of Copenhagen’s splendor, head to the highest point in the city – the majestic Palace Tower! It won’t cost you a dime to get to the top, but there’s usually a queue, so be prepared. While you’re there, why not enjoy a meal at Tower Restaurant? Open Tuesday-Saturday 11am-9pm and Sunday 11am-5.30pm – what a great way to end an epic climb!
a few things to remember
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For a distraction-free visit, keep quiet in the palace.
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The palace is open to the public from 10am to 5pm, but closed on Mondays.
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From May to September, the palace is open daily from 9am to 5pm
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It is kept closed for special occasions when it is used by the Queen or Parliament.
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Visit the Parliament, which is only open to guided visitors.
