Name: The King's Garden
Address: Øster Voldgade 4A, 1307 København, Denmark
Telephone: 33 95 42 00
Rating: 4.6

Parkland & gardens, established in the 17th century, with tree-lined paths & pavilions.

Tivoli Gardens

Richard Glen

monksymgf

Thomas Perez (Dj Speedy)

Jani Haapala

Michael Lachman

Christiania

Provided by Google

Amalienborg

The Little Mermaid

A. Ch

kristin

Sunil Kumar

Milan Oriešek

Fatima Martins

Langelinie

The King's Garden is home to the Parkmuseerne museum district, which includes six museums, including Rosenborg Castle and the Botanical Garden.

Museum District

A single ticket to the Parkmuseerne museums costs 245 DKK and grants access to all six museums.

Parkmuseerne Ticket

The Botanical Garden's Palm House features a narrow, cast-iron spiral staircase that climbs 16 meters high.

Palm House Staircase

The Botanical Garden was laid out in 1874 after being moved twice since its initial establishment in 1600.

Botanical Garden Layout

The Botanical Garden has a unique air-conditioned greenhouse that can recreate environments suitable for Arctic plants.

Special Greenhouse

The King's Garden

The King's Garden, a verdant oasis in the heart of Copenhagen, Denmark, unfolds its charm across 26 acres of meticulously landscaped grounds. Established in the 17th century by King Christian IV, this historic haven boasts a captivating blend of Renaissance and Baroque influences, evident in its geometrically arranged parterres, ornate fountains, and towering sculptures.

Among its captivating features, the Rosenborg Castle, a 17th-century Renaissance masterpiece, stands as a testament to the garden's royal heritage. Its copper-clad spire, visible from afar, serves as a beacon for visitors seeking to delve into the rich history of the Danish monarchy.

The Garden's allure extends beyond its visual splendor. The fragrant Rose Garden, a haven for over 4,000 rose bushes, tantalizes the senses with its intoxicating aromas, while the tranquil Duck Pond offers a serene escape from the city's bustle.

For art enthusiasts, the Garden houses a collection of sculptures, including the iconic bronze statue of Hans Christian Andersen, the renowned Danish author, and the poignant Gefion Fountain, depicting the mythical Norse goddess.

The King's Garden, a tapestry of history, nature, and art, invites visitors to embark on a captivating journey through time, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of the Danish royal court and the enduring beauty of nature.

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Copenhagen, The King's Garden, also known as Kongens Have, whispers tales of Danish royalty and horticultural evolution. Established in 1606 by King Christian IV, this verdant haven served as a private retreat for the royal family, its Renaissance-style parterres bursting with fruits, vegetables, and flowers for the royal household. As the centuries unfolded, the garden mirrored the shifting tides of royal tastes and horticultural trends.

Under King Frederik IV, the garden blossomed into a Baroque masterpiece, adorned with symmetrical layouts, intricate parterres, and ornamental fountains. The influence of French garden design, epitomized by André Le Nôtre's work at Versailles, is evident in the garden's axial layout and water features. This transformation reflected the king's desire to emulate the grandeur of European courts and showcase Denmark's royal prestige.

In a groundbreaking move, the garden opened its gates to the public in the late 18th century, becoming one of the first royal gardens in Europe to do so. This decision aligned with the Enlightenment ideals of public access to green spaces and reflected the changing relationship between the monarchy and its people.

The 19th and 20th centuries witnessed the garden's embrace of the English landscape style, introducing a more naturalistic and informal aesthetic. This shift away from rigid geometric patterns symbolized a growing appreciation for nature's untamed beauty.

Today, The King's Garden stands as a testament to Denmark's rich royal history and horticultural heritage. Its meticulously maintained flower beds, statues, and historical buildings offer a glimpse into the lives and tastes of Danish monarchs, while its serene atmosphere provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city. As you stroll through its paths, imagine the footsteps of kings and queens, the rustling of silk gowns, and the echoes of laughter amidst the vibrant blooms. The King's Garden is a living tapestry, woven with threads of royal history, horticultural artistry, and the enduring allure of nature.

Royal History

Nestled in the heart of Copenhagen, The King's Garden (Kongens Have) has served as a muse to countless writers and poets, its verdant expanse and tranquil atmosphere fostering creativity and inspiration. Hans Christian Andersen, the renowned Danish author, found solace and inspiration within the garden's embrace, penning some of his most beloved fairy tales amidst its fragrant blooms and rustling leaves. The garden's serene beauty and rich history have also captivated the imaginations of international literary figures, including Virginia Woolf and Isak Dinesen, who sought refuge and inspiration within its leafy confines.

Beyond its literary allure, The King's Garden offers a unique perspective on Danish culture and history. The garden's origins date back to the 17th century, when King Christian IV commissioned its creation as a pleasure garden for the royal family. Over the centuries, the garden has witnessed countless historical events, from royal weddings and coronations to public gatherings and protests. Its meticulously manicured lawns, ornate sculptures, and ancient trees whisper tales of a bygone era, transporting visitors to a realm of historical intrigue and literary enchantment.

The garden's literary legacy is further enriched by its association with the nearby Rosenborg Castle, a Renaissance-era palace that houses the Danish crown jewels and a collection of royal artifacts. The castle's opulent interiors and storied past have inspired numerous literary works, including Karen Blixen's "Out of Africa" and Johannes V. Jensen's "The Fall of the King." Together, The King's Garden and Rosenborg Castle form an enchanting literary landscape, where history, nature, and imagination converge.

In the footsteps of literary giants, visitors to The King's Garden can embark on a journey of discovery, immersing themselves in the garden's rich literary heritage and drawing inspiration from its tranquil beauty. Whether strolling along the winding paths, admiring the vibrant flowerbeds, or simply relaxing beneath the shade of a centuries-old tree, visitors can find solace and inspiration in this literary oasis. The King's Garden stands as a testament to the enduring power of literature to inspire, transport, and connect us to the world around us.

Literary Inspiration

The King's Garden in København, Denmark, is a haven of botanical diversity, boasting a rich collection of over 9,000 plant species from across the globe. Established in 1600, the garden has served as a living museum, showcasing the wonders of the plant kingdom and fostering a deep appreciation for nature.

One of the garden's most remarkable features is its extensive collection of trees, including ancient oaks, towering elms, and graceful weeping willows. These majestic specimens provide a sense of tranquility and grandeur, creating a verdant canopy that shelters a diverse array of flora beneath.

Among the garden's highlights is the historic Orangery, a glasshouse dating back to the 18th century. This architectural gem houses a collection of exotic plants, including citrus trees, palms, and cacti, offering a glimpse into the world's tropical and subtropical regions.

The garden's meticulously maintained flower beds burst with vibrant colors and captivating fragrances. From delicate roses and fragrant lilies to vibrant tulips and stately dahlias, the garden's floral displays change with the seasons, offering a kaleidoscope of beauty throughout the year.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, The King's Garden plays a vital role in botanical research and conservation. The garden's herbarium houses a vast collection of plant specimens, providing invaluable data for scientists studying plant diversity and evolution.

The garden's commitment to sustainability is evident in its efforts to promote biodiversity and protect endangered species. Through careful plant selection and sustainable gardening practices, the garden serves as a model for environmentally responsible horticulture.

A visit to The King's Garden in København, Denmark, is an immersive experience that transports visitors to a world of botanical wonders. From towering trees to delicate flowers, the garden's diverse collection offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of plant life and inspires a deep appreciation for the natural world.

Botanical Diversity

The King's Garden: A Historic Urban Oasis in Copenhagen

Nestled in the heart of Copenhagen, The King's Garden (Kongens Have) offers a serene escape from the city's bustling streets. This historic urban oasis, dating back to the 17th century, seamlessly blends Renaissance charm with contemporary functionality. 

Beyond its meticulously maintained lawns and vibrant flowerbeds, The King's Garden boasts unique features that contribute to its status as an urban oasis. The presence of Rosenborg Castle adds a touch of regal history, while the winding paths and hidden lakes invite visitors to lose themselves in tranquil exploration. 

The garden's rich history is evident in its meticulously preserved elements. The original kitchen and ornamental gardens, once supplying the Royal household, offer a glimpse into the past. The formal parterre gardens, reminiscent of the Tuileries in Paris, showcase the garden's evolution over centuries. 

The King's Garden also embraces contemporary elements, ensuring its relevance as an urban oasis. Temporary pavilion installations and innovative sculptures add a modern touch to the historic landscape. The garden's 40 acres provide ample space for diverse activities, from leisurely strolls to picnics and cultural events. 

This urban oasis caters to a variety of needs, offering a haven for relaxation, recreation, and cultural exploration. Whether seeking a quiet escape from the city's noise or a vibrant space for social interaction, The King's Garden provides a unique and enriching experience for all visitors.

Urban Oasis

Sculptural Masterpieces in the King's Garden: A Journey Through Time

Nestled within the heart of Copenhagen, the King's Garden, also known as Kongens Have, is not just a haven of greenery but also an open-air gallery of captivating sculptures. These artistic treasures, spanning centuries, offer a unique perspective on the city's history and artistic evolution.

One of the most iconic pieces is the bronze statue of Hans Christian Andersen, the beloved Danish author. Depicted in a contemplative pose, the sculpture captures the essence of his imaginative spirit. Nearby, the monumental equestrian statue of King Christian V, sculpted by Johannes Wiedewelt, stands as a testament to the city's royal heritage.

As you stroll through the park, you'll encounter a collection of mythological figures, including the graceful marble statue of Venus and the imposing bronze figure of Hercules. These sculptures, inspired by classical antiquity, add a touch of grandeur to the landscape.

The King's Garden also boasts a collection of contemporary sculptures, offering a glimpse into modern artistic expression. The abstract steel sculpture by Robert Jacobsen, with its dynamic curves and sharp angles, stands in stark contrast to the classical figures.

Each sculpture in the King's Garden tells a story, offering insights into the artistic trends and historical events that have shaped Copenhagen. As you explore this open-air museum, you'll embark on a journey through time, discovering the hidden treasures that lie within this verdant oasis.

Sculptural Masterpieces

The King's Garden in Copenhagen, Denmark, stands as a testament to the evolution of Renaissance garden design. Established in 1606 by King Christian IV, the garden initially embodied the principles of Renaissance aesthetics, characterized by symmetry, geometric patterns, and a strong connection to the surrounding architecture. 

One of the most striking features of the Renaissance design is the axial layout, with central pathways radiating outwards, creating a sense of order and harmony. This is evident in the Knight's Path and the Lady's Path, two diagonal lime tree avenues that intersect near the center of the park. These avenues, along with the meticulously maintained parterres and ornamental features, reflect the influence of Italian Renaissance gardens, particularly the Boboli Gardens in Florence.

The garden's original Renaissance design also incorporated elements of symbolism and allegory, common in Renaissance gardens. The presence of fountains, statues, and mythological references served as visual representations of virtues, historical events, and classical mythology. 

While the garden has undergone transformations over the centuries, incorporating elements of Baroque and English landscape styles, the underlying Renaissance structure remains evident. The King's Garden in Copenhagen offers a unique glimpse into the history of Renaissance garden design, showcasing its principles of symmetry, geometry, and symbolism within a vibrant urban setting.

The King's Garden

Did You Know?

Museum District

Parkmuseerne Ticket

Palm House Staircase

Botanical Garden Layout

Location