Kongens Have (King's Garden) | Copenhagen

Kongens Have (The King’s Garden) is one of Copenhagen’s oldest and most beloved public parks, located in the heart of the city. It is a popular green space for both locals and tourists, offering a peaceful escape from the urban hustle and bustle while also being home to some of the city's most significant cultural landmarks.

Overview

• Name: Kongens Have (The King’s Garden)
• Location: Central Copenhagen, near Rosenborg Castle
• Size: Approximately 28 acres (11 hectares)
• Opening: Open to the public year-round
• Type: Public park, historical garden
• Famous Landmark: Rosenborg Castle (located within the park)

History

The origins of Kongens Have date back to the 1600s when it was originally designed as a royal garden for King Christian IV. The garden was part of the king’s desire to create a space that combined beauty, utility, and nature.

The Early Years (1606):

• The garden was first established in 1606 as the King's private garden. King Christian IV initially used it as a place to grow fruits, vegetables, and flowers.
• It was also intended as a retreat from the royal palace, allowing the king and his court to relax amidst nature.

Public Access (1870s):

• In the 1870s, the garden was opened to the public. The city of Copenhagen transformed it into a public park and began to enhance its aesthetic appeal with landscaping, sculptures, and flower beds.

Rosenborg Castle:

• Rosenborg Castle, one of Copenhagen's most iconic landmarks, is situated within the park. Originally built by Christian IV as a royal residence, the castle now houses the Danish Crown Jewels and other historical royal artifacts. The proximity of the castle and the surrounding park make Kongens Have a central historical and cultural location.

Key Features and Attractions

Rosenborg Castle:

• Rosenborg Castle is the crown jewel of Kongens Have. The castle’s Renaissance-style architecture and the royal gardens make it an important cultural monument in Copenhagen. Visitors can tour the castle and explore its stunning rooms, including the Crown Jewels and the King's Treasury.

The Gardens:

• The gardens themselves are beautifully landscaped, with manicured lawns, flower beds, and mature trees. The garden is known for its seasonal flower displays, which change throughout the year, especially during spring and summer when tulips, roses, and other flowers are in full bloom.
• The garden has a series of neatly organized flowerbeds, which include both ornamental and historical plants.

The Parterre:

• A significant feature of the garden is the parterre, a French-style geometric garden located near the castle. This area is characterized by symmetrical flower beds, neatly trimmed hedges, and decorative paths.

Statues and Sculptures:

• Kongens Have is home to several important statues and sculptures, many of which are of historical figures. One of the most notable statues is of Hans Christian Andersen, Denmark’s famous fairy tale writer. The statue is located in the middle of the park, surrounded by greenery.
• Other statues commemorate royal figures and Danish historical personalities, making the park not only a place of beauty but also a significant cultural landmark.

The Rose Garden:

• One of the park's highlights is its rose garden, which features a wide variety of roses, creating a stunning display of color and fragrance during the summer months. The roses are carefully cultivated, and the garden is a popular spot for photography.

Pond and Fountain:

• A large pond with a fountain sits at the southern end of the park. The pond, surrounded by trees and flowers, adds to the tranquility of the space. Visitors can sit on benches along the water's edge, enjoy the scenery, and watch ducks and other wildlife.

Open Spaces for Relaxation:

• The park offers several large open spaces, which are perfect for picnics, reading, or simply relaxing in nature. The expansive lawns are great for lounging in the sun during the warmer months, and the park is popular for jogging, cycling, and family outings.

Café and Amenities:

• There is a café near the park where visitors can grab a coffee or light refreshments. The park also has several benches and picnic areas for visitors to rest and enjoy their time in the gardens.

Seasonal Attractions

• Spring and Summer: During the warmer months, Kongens Have is at its most vibrant, with colorful flowers in bloom and visitors flocking to the park to enjoy the sun. The rose garden and flower beds are in full display, and the park becomes a social hub for locals.
• Autumn: In autumn, the park’s trees turn vibrant shades of red, yellow, and orange, making it a beautiful spot for an autumn stroll. The cooler weather also makes it an ideal time for peaceful walks without the crowds.
• Winter: In the winter months, Kongens Have has a more tranquil atmosphere, especially after snowfall when the park transforms into a serene, white landscape. The winter light creates a magical setting for visitors to explore the park.

Visitor Information

Opening Hours:

• The park is open year-round, and it’s free to visit. It’s an accessible green space that is open from early morning until late evening. However, the opening hours for Rosenborg Castle may vary, so it's worth checking the castle’s schedule if you're planning to visit it.

Admission:

• Free entry to the park itself.
• Rosenborg Castle has an admission fee, but visitors can explore the garden and surrounding grounds without charge.

How to Get There:

• Kongens Have is located in central Copenhagen and is easily accessible by public transport. The Nørreport Metro Station is nearby, as well as several bus lines that stop close to the park.

Facilities:

• There are public restrooms available within the park.
• Cafés and food stands are located near the entrance or around Rosenborg Castle.

Nearby Attractions

1. The National Gallery of Denmark (Statens Museum for Kunst): Located a short distance from Kongens Have, this museum houses an extensive collection of Danish and international art.
2. Stroget: Copenhagen’s famous shopping street, Stroget, is nearby, offering a wide range of shops, cafes, and restaurants.
3. Botanical Gardens: Located just north of Kongens Have, the University of Copenhagen Botanical Gardens is another beautiful green space with a variety of plants and historic greenhouses.
4. Tivoli Gardens: A world-famous amusement park and garden, Tivoli is just a short walk away from Kongens Have and offers entertainment for visitors of all ages.

Fun Fact

• Hans Christian Andersen, Denmark’s beloved author of fairy tales, was a frequent visitor to Kongens Have. The statue of him in the park is a tribute to his close connection with the city and the inspiration he drew from Copenhagen’s natural beauty.

Visiting Tips

1. Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Kongens Have is during spring and summer when the gardens are in full bloom, and the weather is perfect for a leisurely stroll.
2. Take Your Time: Don’t rush through the park. Take time to enjoy the sculptures, sit by the fountain, or relax on the lawns. It’s a great place for a picnic or a quiet moment in nature.
3. Explore Nearby Attractions: After visiting Kongens Have, take time to explore nearby landmarks like Rosenborg Castle, the Botanical Gardens, and the National Gallery.

Kongens Have is a beautiful, historical park that combines nature, culture, and history. Whether you’re looking to explore the royal garden, relax by the fountain, or visit Rosenborg Castle, it’s a must-see destination for anyone visiting Copenhagen.