The History of Koldinghus

Koldinghus – from fortress to royal palace – from glory to ruin

Join us on this exciting tour of the castle with an experienced guide and hear the fascinating story of the castle’s more than 750-year-long history.

Koldinghus has undergone major changes and transformations during its existence. On this tour of the castle, your guide will tell you the story of the first structure to be built on the castle mound, the renovations and changes undertaken by different kings and the traces they left behind. Wars and fires left their mark on the castle until the catastrophic event in 1808, when the castle burnt down to the ground. All that was left was a ruin, which took on a new role during the 19th century, when ruins were regarded as beautiful and picturesque elements in the cultural landscape. Later, however, the castle rose from the ashes and found new glory as one of Denmark’s major and distinctive museums.

On this tour, you will visit selected rooms and hear about the history of the castle and the Danish kings. You will also hear the story of the bricklayers told in the large courtyard with its rare, original pavement.

A visit to Koldinghus Castle introduces you to an important chapter in Danish history and the story of a country and a town that have been closely connected in peace and war, occupation and defeat, development and revival.

Book your guided tour here