Fredensborg Palace
Visit Fredensborg Palace
Frederik IV’s country seat was completed in 1724. Since then, the Baroque palace on Lake Esrum has hosted royal weddings and birthday celebrations as well as state visits from all over the world. At the palace, you can visit the Italian-inspired Dome Hall, which rises through two floors. Afterwards, you can stroll through the beautiful palace gardens, one of Denmark’s most impressive Baroque parks, which features long avenues, sculptures and the famous Valley of the Norsemen: a collection of statues depicting Norwegian and Faroese farmers and fishermen.
The History of the Palace
Explore the history of Fredensborg Palace from its construction in 1720 to its present-day use.
1720
The construction of Fredensborg Palace
The construction of Fredensborg Palace begins, using building materials from an old summerhouse near Frederiksborg Castle named 'Sparepenge' ('Savings'). Photo: Thomas Rahbek.
1726
Fredensborg Palace Chapel is inaugurated
Fredensborg Chapel is inaugurated on Frederik IV’s birthday, 11 October.
1741
Mezzanine raised and four chimneys added
The palace mezzanine is raised, and the four chimneys around the dome are added, designed by architect Laurids de Thurah. Photo: Jesper Bækgaard
1750
The walls of the Garden Hall are decorated
During the 1750s, the walls of the Garden Hall are decorated with Italian scenes by the theatrical scene painter Jacopo Fabris. Photo: Tine Uffelmann
1759
The Palace Garden is redesigned
From 1759 to 1766, the architect Nicolas-Henri Jardin and the sculptor Johannes Wiedewelt redesign the Palace Garden. Photo: Carsten Ingemann
1774
The Octagon is raised and opened
Between 1774 and 1776, the Octagon is raised and opened towards the palace drive by architect C. F. Harsdorff, giving the palace its current form.
1863
Fredensborg Palace is used as a summer residence
Christian IX and Queen Louise begin using Fredensborg Palace as their summer residence.
1967
Royal wedding at Fredensborg Palace
The wedding between Princess Margrethe (II), Heir Apparent to the Danish throne, and Count Henri de Monpezat is celebrated with a grand party in the garden at Fredensborg Palace. Photo: Elfelt.
2004
Royal wedding celebration held at Fredensborg
The wedding of the current Royal Couple is celebrated in a tent in the Palace Garden at Fredensborg.
2013
Baroque garden restored
The extensive renovation of parts of the Baroque garden, including the wide central avenue called Brede Allé, is completed. The project includes the recarving of forty sculptures. Photo: Carsten Ingemann
