The Citadel, the heart of Danish politics

Christiansborg is located on the small island of Slotsholmen, in the harbour of Copenhagen. Originally this was the home of the royal family, but after a fire in 1794 the family moved to Amalienborg. This is now the seat of the Danish parliament and the Court. The Danish premier also has his office in the former palace.

Arts & Culture
The Knight's Hall with tapestries

A tour of Christiansborg

A tour of Christiansborg will take you through the royal quarters and the parliament, the stage of political action in Denmark. Guides will provide an explanation of the Danish political system. Of all the royal quarters, the royal reception rooms are the most impressive – and open to the public. The venue often hosts banquets, galas and other official meetings. The Knight’s Hall is decorated with a collection of tapestries that were given to Queen Margrethe II as a gift for her 50th birthday in 1990. The tapestries depict 1000 years of Danish history and were designed by artist Bjørn Nørgaard. The throne room gives access to the balcony that has been the stage for many a royal balcony scene. The ceiling of this room is decorated with a painting that portrays the legend of the Danish flag, the Dannebrog. According to legend, the flag is a gift from God and it helped Denmark win a battle in Estonia. Because of its legendary origin, the Dannebrog is often regarded as the oldest flag in the world.

The foundations are hundreds of years old

Centuries old, yet new

The foundations of Christiansborg are more than 800 years old: in 1167, bishop Absalon built the very first castle on this site. Over the course of various centuries, this fortress expanded until it acquired the shape of the current Palace. Today’s Christiansborg is actually the third version of the palace. After the 1794 fire, the palace was reconstructed but it burned down again in 1884. Only a few buildings and the chapel escaped the fire. The palace was rebuilt in 1907 and given the solid appearance that underlines the role of the building as the country’s political heart.

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