Copenhagen is a city brimming with history, charm, and an undeniable sense of hygge. While many visitors flock to Nyhavn or Tivoli, another must see is Kongens Have, or the King’s Garden Copenhagen. It’s a peaceful spot with history and culture steeped in every perfectly manicured flowerbed, offering a tranquil escape right in the busy city. The gardens were high on our list of places to visit when we were there last fall.
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History Meets Horticulture
Kongens Have, King’s Garden, is free to visit. For more ideas of budget friendly must sees in Copenhagen, check out the Free Things to Do In Copenhagen post. There are also paid tours you can do to see inside Rosenborg Castle and the gardens as well. We toured the castle after seeing the gardens and that was well worth the fee to get in and see the Crown Jewels.
The story of Kongens Have, the King’s Garden is, unsurprisingly, tied to a king: Christian IV. The visionary monarch, responsible for many of Copenhagen’s most iconic buildings. In the early 17th century, he decided he needed a grand, Dutch Renaissance-style summer residence just outside the city walls. This became Rosenborg Castle, and naturally, a magnificent garden was essential to complement it.
Garden Design
Walking through the garden, you can almost imagine Christian IV himself strolling along the paths, admiring his handiwork. The design of the garden is a beautiful example of Renaissance landscaping, with clear divisions and symbolic elements.
The Layout of the Garden
One of the most striking features is the Parterre in front of Rosenborg Castle. This is the highly ornamental, formal section with intricate patterns created by low hedges and colourful flowers. It’s designed for visual impact, a feast for the eyes, and a clear statement of royal power and taste. It would have been the first thing visitors saw and was meant to impress.
Then there’s the Long Canal (Den Lange Kanal), which runs through the garden. While it might seem like a simple water feature, in its time, it was a significant engineering feat. It also provided a sense of calm and reflection, contrasting with the more formal parterre.
The Statues
Keep an eye out for the many statues and sculptures scattered throughout the garden. These often depict figures from classical mythology or allegories, adding another layer of artistic and intellectual depth to the landscape. They were chosen to inspire contemplation and represent various virtues or stories.
Nearby you can spy the Rosenborg Barracks, though not strictly part of the garden, the barracks border Kongens Have. You might even catch the Royal Life Guards practicing here, adding a touch of pomp and ceremony to your visit.
A Historical Royal Working Garden
The Garden started as a private royal retreat and for years served as a source of fruit, vegetables, and flowers for the royal court. The park was opened to the public in the late 18th century. Now it is a beloved public park that about 3 million people a year visit. On any given sunny day, you’ll find locals picnicking on the lawns, reading under trees, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll. It’s a place where history meets modern life seamlessly.
Culture and Modern Backdrops:
King’s Garden has been a popular choice for Danish productions. It was also featured in Netflix’s The Bear Season 2, the season when Marcus, the pastry chef goes to Copenhagen to build his pastry skills.
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a peaceful spot to unwind, the King’s Garden offers a unique and enriching experience. It’s a testament to Copenhagen’s rich past and its enduring charm, a place where you can feel the pulse of the city’s history.
