Copenhagen Remembers the Renaissance

Press Information
November 2005

Copenhagen remembers the Renaissance

History lovers, among others, will have all the more reason to visit Copenhagen in 2006, when the city pays tribute to the great achievements of the Renaissance. A wide variety of special events, celebrating that remarkable period of its history, will be held throughout the capital region.

The Danish Renaissance, which lasted from approximately 1500-1660, had a profound impact on Copenhagen and the surrounding communities, of which the many impressive Renaissance buildings and castles that remain standing today are monumental proof.

Although the Renaissance is said to have reached Denmark as early as 1500, Copenhagen still resembled a medieval town, when 19-year-old Christian IV (1577-1648) was crowned King in 1596. Only the steeples of Slotsholmen, Vor Frue (Our Lady) cathedral and the German Sankt Petri church could be seen spiralling heavenward above the low-lying rooftops of the capital. Elsewhere in the leading cities of Europe, however, extensive changes inspired by the Renaissance in Italy had been taking place. The influence of these developments would soon be felt in Northern Europe and Denmark.

Subsequently, during the 60-year reign of Christian IV, Copenhagen was transformed into a modern city. The construction of high towers and magnificent buildings - the stock exchange Børsen, Rosenborg Castle and The Round Tower - gave the city international splendour. Trade boomed with the import of exotic items from far away lands. Christian IV had big plans for his country. In fact, the Kingdom of Denmark had never been larger than under his rule! Christian IV reigned over Norway, Iceland and parts of Sweden including Scania, Halland, Blekinge and the colonial territory of Tranquebar in India.

Spectacular Renaissance architecture
You don't have to walk far in Copenhagen to discover prime examples of Renaissance architecture. Castles with characteristic spires and green copper roofs, churches with sweeping gables and special window surrounds, and romantic, low-rise half-timber buildings can be found all around the city.

The Round Tower with the adjacent Trinitatis Kirke, or Trinity Church, was commissioned by Christian IV in 1637 and remains among the most well known of the city's Renaissance structures. The tower is one of the most popular attractions with 380.000 visitors in 2004. The spiral walk is unique in European architecture - the 209 m long spiral ramp winds itself 7,5 times round the hollow core of the tower and ends at the astronomical observatory at the top.

Not far away lies the Rosenborg Castle. More than just a beautiful, historic building, Rosenborg Castle is also a fascinating museum of cultural history. It is home to some of Denmark's most prized cultural treasures, including the crown jewels and other regalia. Surrounding the castle is the so-called King’s Garden, where locals like to relax and sunbathe.

Børsen, one of the first commodity exchanges in Europe, was built from 1618 to 1624 with the king's sponsorship to signify Copenhagen's position as a commercial metropolis. Although it was built in the style of the Dutch Renaissance, the distinctive towers and garrets on the roof, reflect the taste of Christian IV. The characteristic spire of the building consists of four dragon tales wound together with three crowns on top symbolising the then kingdom Denmark, which included Norway and Sweden.

Just across from Børsen is Holmen's Church - church of the royal navy, which was also one of the King's many building projects. This is also the church where the reigning Queen Margrethe married Prince Henrik in 1967.

Kronborg Castle in Elsinore, at the seaward approach to the Øresund Sound, is one of Northern Europe's most important Renaissance castles. It is also the most famous castle in Denmark, known all over the world as the setting for Shakespeare’s Hamlet. This national treasure, commissioned by King Frederik II, was built between 1574 and 1585 on the remains of an old fortress called Krogen. It was destroyed by fire in 1629, but reconstructed in the old style by Christian IV. The castle is open to the public with many rooms featuring splendid Renaissance and baroque interiors. It is also possible to visit the well-preserved Castle church and the casemates with the stone figure of Holger Danske. According to national mythology, if Denmark is attacked, Holger Danske will wake up from his deep sleep to save his country.

A bit further inland, in the town of Hillerød, is another stunning monument to the Danish Renaissance, Frederiksborg Castle. Built on three isles in the Castle Lake, it is surrounded by the unique Frederiksborg Castle Gardens. Constructed in the Dutch Renaissance style at the beginning of the 17th century, this castle was another pet project of Christian IV. It was destroyed about 250 years later during a fire and rebuilt by the founder of the famous Carlsberg Brewery, J.C. Jacobsen. Frederiksborg Slotskirke, the Castle Chapel, was spared from the flames and still stands today with its unique carved ceilings from the time of Christian IV. It was in this church that Prince Joachim married Princess Alexandra in 1995.

Renaissance neighbourhoods and streets
Christianshavn begins at Knippelsbro, the bridge that has always connected this quaint and trendy neighbourhood with the heart of Copenhagen. It was founded - not surprisingly - by Christian IV in 1619 and built on Dutch inspiration. A walk along Strandgade, with its charming Renaissance buildings and magnificent merchant courtyards, is a worthwhile trip back in time. Since the first of these courtyards was built in Strandgade, the neighbourhood has grown and the tradition of imposing architecture continued, most recently in the form of the famous Danish architect Henning Larsen's office building that sits grandly on the harbour. You can experience the Renaissance on Christianshavn easily by foot, or take in the sights on one of the many available canal tours.

Nyboder is known as one of Europe's oldest social housing developments. The small yellow houses lining Nyboder's cobblestone streets with exotic names like Tiger Street, Crocodile Street and Camel Street were built during the reign of Christian IV as modest homes for sailors in the royal navy. Nyboder's oldest building, a long, low structure, now houses a commemorative small museum, where you can get a good feeling for the daily life of commoners during the Renaissance. Today, the area lies adjacent to the city's trendy business centre.

Magstræde, which lies just behind Frederiksholm's Canal, first appeared in Copenhagen during the 16th century. Magstræde number 17, 19 and 20 are some of the oldest Renaissance buildings dating back to the beginning of the 17th century. The area around Magstræde also contains many fine restaurants including Tyvenkokkenhanskoneoghendeselsker (The thief, the cook, his wife and her lover), which is recommended in the Michelin Guide.

2006: The year of the Renaissance
2006 has been designated the year of the Renaissance in Denmark. To mark the occasion, an exciting array of cultural events is scheduled to take place throughout the year in the capital region. Exhibitions, concerts, walking tours and many other special activities, both indoors and out, have been planned to spotlight this extraordinary period in Copenhagen's history.

The Golden Days Festival during the month of September will highlight the fantastic transformation of Copenhagen from a medieval town into a Renaissance city under the visionary stewardship of King Christian IV. The Renaissance churches, castles, and manors in the entire region will be in focus. The festival will also pay homage to the colourful entourage of people who surrounded Christian IV and also left their mark on the history of Denmark. These include the astronomer Tycho Brahe, governor Corfitz Ulfeldt who was married to Leonora Christine, daughter of Christian IV and Kirsten Munk and Ulrik Gyldenløve, son of King Frederik III.

Trinitas Kirken (Trinity Church) celebrates its 350th anniversary in 2006 with an historic parade through the city in June. A party in the church square featuring entertainment, food and beverages will follow the parade.

Rosenborg Renaissance Festival is a music festival that will be held in the king's apartments, the winter garden and the great hall at Rosenborg Castle. The festival is a series of concerts focusing on the music played during the time of Christian IV. This is a celebration of Rosenborg Castle's 400th anniversary where Renaissance music can be enjoyed in its original settings.

In 2006, Hillerød will host a large Renaissance Festival with participants from home and abroad. There will be stands with food, beverages, handicrafts and entertainment - just as there were during the time of Christian IV. In September a parade through town to Frederiksborg Castle will cap the event followed by dancing, concerts and displays of knightly swordsmanship and horsemanship.

Further information:
Visit the Renaissance Year's official website www.renaessance2006.dk

Useful addresses:

Coordinating secretariat
c/o Nationalmuseet
12, Frederiksholms Kanal 12
Tel.: +45 33 47 34 43

Golden Days in Copenhagen secretariat
www.goldendays.dk
4, Øster Farimagsgade
Tel.: +45 35 42 14 32

Hillerød Festival
www.hillerodfestival.dk
www.hillerodturist.dk
Hillerød Tourist Office
9, Møllestræde
Tel.: +45 48 24 26 26

Permanent attractions:

Kronborg Castle
www.kronborg.dk
Tel.: +45 49 21 30 78

Holmens Kirke (Church of the Royal Navy)
www.holmenskirke.dk
21, Holmens Kanal
Tel.: +45 33 13 61 78

Rosenborg Castle
www.rosenborgslot.dk
4A, Østervoldgade
Tel.: +45 33 15 32 86

Rundetårn og Trinitatis Kirke
The Round Tower and Trinity Church
www.rundetaarn.dk
52, Købmagergade
Tel.: +45 33 73 03 73

Børsen (the stock exchange)
www.borsbygningen.dk
Tel.: +45 70 13 12 00

Rundetårn og Trinitatis Kirke
The Round Tower and Trinity Church
www.rundetaarn.dk
52, Købmagergade
Tel.: +45 33 73 03 73

Frederiksborg Castle and Gardens in Hillerød
www.frederiksborgslot.dk
10, Møntportvejen
Tel.: +45 48 26 04 39

Museums with special Exhibitions:

The National Museum
Tycho Brahe's world (16 Sept. 2006 - 9 April 2007)
www.natmus.dk
12, Frederiksholms Kanal
Tel.: +45 33 13 44 11

Tøjhusmuseet
The Royal Danish Arsenal Museum
The military revolution and tournament of knights (16 Sept. 2006 - 7 April 2007)
www.thm.dk
29, Frederiksholms Kanal
Tel.: +45 33 11 60 37

Helsingør City Museum
Customs on the Sound Exhibition
www.helsingor.dk/museum
36, Sct. Anna Gade
Tel.: +45 49 28 18 00

Copenhagen City Museum
www.bymuseum.dk
Renaissance Food (from 3 Jan. 2006)
3, Absalonsgade
Tel.: +45 33 21 07 72

Kroppedal Museum
Museum of Astronomy, Modern History and Archeology
www.kroppedal.dk
(to be announced)
3, Kroppedals Allé
Tel.: +45 43 30 30 00

IMAX Tycho Brahe Planetarium
(to be announced)
www.tycho.dk
10, Gl. Kongevej
Tel.: +45 33 12 12 24

The Hirschsprungske Collection
Artist Kristian Zartmann's paintings of Leonora Christine
www.hirschsprung.dk
20, Stockholmsgade
Tel.: +45 35 42 03 36

Post and Tele Museum
Exhibition about King Christian IV's bell founder
www.postogtelemuseet.dk
37, Købmagergade
Tel.: +45 33 41 09 00

Statens Museum for Kunst
Denamark’s National Gallery
Rembrandt exhibition (4 Feb. -14 May 2006)
www.smk.dk
48-50 Sølvgade
Tel.: +45 33 74 84 94

Roskilde Museum
Marstrand's sketches of the Christian IV’s chapel (16 June - 2 Oct.)
www.roskildemuseum.dk
15, Sankt Ols Gade
Tel.: +45 46 31 65 00

Rosenborg Castle
The Kings of Rosenborg exhibition.
About the four generations of kings that have used Rosenborg as their residence.
www.rosenborgslot.dk

Frederiksborg Castle
Frederiksborg in war and peace.
Exhibition of water fountain figures, portraits and tapestries that became Swedish spoils of war.
www.frederiksborgslot.dk



Øresund Region Meetings & Conventions Hotels Cruise Town areas Fashion, Design & Shopping Gastronomy & Night life Sights & Events Copenhagen specialities Gay Press > Press information > Copenhagen specialities > Copenhagen Remembers the Renaissance Copenhagen Remembers the Renaissance Press Information November 2005 Copenhagen remembers the Renaissance History lovers, among others, will have all the more reason to visit Copenhagen in 2006, when the city pays tribute to the great achievements of the Renaissance. A wide variety of special events, celebrating that remarkable period of its history, will be held throughout the capital region. The Danish Renaissance, which lasted from approximately 1500-1660, had a profound impact on Copenhagen and the surrounding communities, of which the many impressive Renaissance buildings and castles that remain standing today are monumental proof. Although the Renaissance is said to have reached Denmark as early as 1500, Copenhagen still resembled a medieval town, when 19-year-old Christian IV (1577-1648) was crowned King in 1596. Only the steeples of Slotsholmen, Vor Frue (Our Lady) cathedral and the German Sankt Petri church could be seen spiralling heavenward above the low-lying rooftops of the capital. Elsewhere in the leading cities of Europe, however, extensive changes inspired by the Renaissance in Italy had been taking place. The influence of these developments would soon be felt in Northern Europe and Denmark. Subsequently, during the 60-year reign of Christian IV, Copenhagen was transformed into a modern city. The construction of high towers and magnificent buildings - the stock exchange Børsen, Rosenborg Castle and The Round Tower - gave the city international splendour. Trade boomed with the import of exotic items from far away lands. Christian IV had big plans for his country. In fact, the Kingdom of Denmark had never been larger than under his rule! Christian IV reigned over Norway, Iceland and parts of Sweden including Scania, Halland, Blekinge and the colonial territory of Tranquebar in India. Spectacular Renaissance architecture You don't have to walk far in Copenhagen to discover prime examples of Renaissance architecture. Castles with characteristic spires and green copper roofs, churches with sweeping gables and special window surrounds, and romantic, low-rise half-timber buildings can be found all around the city. The Round Tower with the adjacent Trinitatis Kirke, or Trinity Church, was commissioned by Christian IV in 1637 and remains among the most well known of the city's Renaissance structures. The tower is one of the most popular attractions with 380.000 visitors in 2004. The spiral walk is unique in European architecture - the 209 m long spiral ramp winds itself 7,5 times round the hollow core of the tower and ends at the astronomical observatory at the top. Not far away lies the Rosenborg Castle. More than just a beautiful, historic building, Rosenborg Castle is also a fascinating museum of cultural history. It is home to some of Denmark's most prized cultural treasures, including the crown jewels and other regalia. Surrounding the castle is the so-called King’s Garden, where locals like to relax and sunbathe. Børsen, one of the first commodity exchanges in Europe, was built from 1618 to 1624 with the king's sponsorship to signify Copenhagen's position as a commercial metropolis. Although it was built in the style of the Dutch Renaissance, the distinctive towers and garrets on the roof, reflect the taste of Christian IV. The characteristic spire of the building consists of four dragon tales wound together with three crowns on top symbolising the then kingdom Denmark, which included Norway and Sweden. Just across from Børsen is Holmen's Church - church of the royal navy, which was also one of the King's many building projects. This is also the church where the reigning Queen Margrethe married Prince Henrik in 1967. Kronborg Castle in Elsinore, at the seaward approach to the Øresund Sound, is one of Northern Europe's most important Renaissance castles. It is also the most famous castle in Denmark, known all over the world as the setting for Shakespeare’s Hamlet. This national treasure, commissioned by King Frederik II, was built between 1574 and 1585 on the remains of an old fortress called Krogen. It was destroyed by fire in 1629, but reconstructed in the old style by Christian IV. The castle is open to the public with many rooms featuring splendid Renaissance and baroque interiors. It is also possible to visit the well-preserved Castle church and the casemates with the stone figure of Holger Danske. According to national mythology, if Denmark is attacked, Holger Danske will wake up from his deep sleep to save his country. A bit further inland, in the town of Hillerød, is another stunning monument to the Danish Renaissance, Frederiksborg Castle. Built on three isles in the Castle Lake, it is surrounded by the unique Frederiksborg Castle Gardens. Constructed in the Dutch Renaissance style at the beginning of the 17th century, this castle was another pet project of Christian IV. It was destroyed about 250 years later during a fire and rebuilt by the founder of the famous Carlsberg Brewery, J.C. Jacobsen. Frederiksborg Slotskirke, the Castle Chapel, was spared from the flames and still stands today with its unique carved ceilings from the time of Christian IV. It was in this church that Prince Joachim married Princess Alexandra in 1995. Renaissance neighbourhoods and streets Christianshavn begins at Knippelsbro, the bridge that has always connected this quaint and trendy neighbourhood with the heart of Copenhagen. It was founded - not surprisingly - by Christian IV in 1619 and built on Dutch inspiration. A walk along Strandgade, with its charming Renaissance buildings and magnificent merchant courtyards, is a worthwhile trip back in time. Since the first of these courtyards was built in Strandgade, the neighbourhood has grown and the tradition of imposing architecture continued, most recently in the form of the famous Danish architect Henning Larsen's office building that sits grandly on the harbour. You can experience the Renaissance on Christianshavn easily by foot, or take in the sights on one of the many available canal tours. Nyboder is known as one of Europe's oldest social housing developments. The small yellow houses lining Nyboder's cobblestone streets with exotic names like Tiger Street, Crocodile Street and Camel Street were built during the reign of Christian IV as modest homes for sailors in the royal navy. Nyboder's oldest building, a long, low structure, now houses a commemorative small museum, where you can get a good feeling for the daily life of commoners during the Renaissance. Today, the area lies adjacent to the city's trendy business centre. Magstræde, which lies just behind Frederiksholm's Canal, first appeared in Copenhagen during the 16th century. Magstræde number 17, 19 and 20 are some of the oldest Renaissance buildings dating back to the beginning of the 17th century. The area around Magstræde also contains many fine restaurants including Tyvenkokkenhanskoneoghendeselsker (The thief, the cook, his wife and her lover), which is recommended in the Michelin Guide. 2006: The year of the Renaissance 2006 has been designated the year of the Renaissance in Denmark. To mark the occasion, an exciting array of cultural events is scheduled to take place throughout the year in the capital region. Exhibitions, concerts, walking tours and many other special activities, both indoors and out, have been planned to spotlight this extraordinary period in Copenhagen's history. The Golden Days Festival during the month of September will highlight the fantastic transformation of Copenhagen from a medieval town into a Renaissance city under the visionary stewardship of King Christian IV. The Renaissance churches, castles, and manors in the entire region will be in focus. The festival will also pay homage to the colourful entourage of people who surrounded Christian IV and also left their mark on the history of Denmark. These include the astronomer Tycho Brahe, governor Corfitz Ulfeldt who was married to Leonora Christine, daughter of Christian IV and Kirsten Munk and Ulrik Gyldenløve, son of King Frederik III. Trinitas Kirken (Trinity Church) celebrates its 350th anniversary in 2006 with an historic parade through the city in June. A party in the church square featuring entertainment, food and beverages will follow the parade. Rosenborg Renaissance Festival is a music festival that will be held in the king's apartments, the winter garden and the great hall at Rosenborg Castle. The festival is a series of concerts focusing on the music played during the time of Christian IV. This is a celebration of Rosenborg Castle's 400th anniversary where Renaissance music can be enjoyed in its original settings. In 2006, Hillerød will host a large Renaissance Festival with participants from home and abroad. There will be stands with food, beverages, handicrafts and entertainment - just as there were during the time of Christian IV. In September a parade through town to Frederiksborg Castle will cap the event followed by dancing, concerts and displays of knightly swordsmanship and horsemanship. Further information: Visit the Renaissance Year's official website www.renaessance2006.dk Useful addresses: Coordinating secretariat c/o Nationalmuseet 12, Frederiksholms Kanal 12 Tel.: +45 33 47 34 43 Golden Days in Copenhagen secretariat www.goldendays.dk 4, Øster Farimagsgade Tel.: +45 35 42 14 32 Hillerød Festival www.hillerodfestival.dk www.hillerodturist.dk Hillerød Tourist Office 9, Møllestræde Tel.: +45 48 24 26 26 Permanent attractions: Kronborg Castle www.kronborg.dk Tel.: +45 49 21 30 78 Holmens Kirke (Church of the Royal Navy) www.holmenskirke.dk 21, Holmens Kanal Tel.: +45 33 13 61 78 Rosenborg Castle www.rosenborgslot.dk 4A, Østervoldgade Tel.: +45 33 15 32 86 Rundetårn og Trinitatis Kirke The Round Tower and Trinity Church www.rundetaarn.dk 52, Købmagergade Tel.: +45 33 73 03 73 Børsen (the stock exchange) www.borsbygningen.dk Tel.: +45 70 13 12 00 Rundetårn og Trinitatis Kirke The Round Tower and Trinity Church www.rundetaarn.dk 52, Købmagergade Tel.: +45 33 73 03 73 Frederiksborg Castle and Gardens in Hillerød www.frederiksborgslot.dk 10, Møntportvejen Tel.: +45 48 26 04 39 Museums with special Exhibitions: The National Museum Tycho Brahe's world (16 Sept. 2006 - 9 April 2007) www.natmus.dk 12, Frederiksholms Kanal Tel.: +45 33 13 44 11 Tøjhusmuseet The Royal Danish Arsenal Museum The military revolution and tournament of knights (16 Sept. 2006 - 7 April 2007) www.thm.dk 29, Frederiksholms Kanal Tel.: +45 33 11 60 37 Helsingør City Museum Customs on the Sound Exhibition www.helsingor.dk/museum 36, Sct. Anna Gade Tel.: +45 49 28 18 00 Copenhagen City Museum www.bymuseum.dk Renaissance Food (from 3 Jan. 2006) 3, Absalonsgade Tel.: +45 33 21 07 72 Kroppedal Museum Museum of Astronomy, Modern History and Archeology www.kroppedal.dk (to be announced) 3, Kroppedals Allé Tel.: +45 43 30 30 00 IMAX Tycho Brahe Planetarium (to be announced) www.tycho.dk 10, Gl. Kongevej Tel.: +45 33 12 12 24 The Hirschsprungske Collection Artist Kristian Zartmann's paintings of Leonora Christine www.hirschsprung.dk 20, Stockholmsgade Tel.: +45 35 42 03 36 Post and Tele Museum Exhibition about King Christian IV's bell founder www.postogtelemuseet.dk 37, Købmagergade Tel.: +45 33 41 09 00 Statens Museum for Kunst Denamark’s National Gallery Rembrandt exhibition (4 Feb. -14 May 2006) www.smk.dk 48-50 Sølvgade Tel.: +45 33 74 84 94 Roskilde Museum Marstrand's sketches of the Christian IV’s chapel (16 June - 2 Oct.) www.roskildemuseum.dk 15, Sankt Ols Gade Tel.: +45 46 31 65 00 Rosenborg Castle The Kings of Rosenborg exhibition. About the four generations of kings that have used Rosenborg as their residence. www.rosenborgslot.dk Frederiksborg Castle Frederiksborg in war and peace. Exhibition of water fountain figures, portraits and tapestries that became Swedish spoils of war. www.frederiksborgslot.dk