Kronborg Castle in Denmark

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
View photos from OUR PLACE the World Heritage collection
Kronborg Castle

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 2000
Size of heritage:

Coordinates:
Longitude: 12,621°
Latitude: 56,039°

Summary

Located on a strategically important site commanding the Sund, the stretch of water between Denmark and Sweden, the Royal castle of Kronborg at Helsingør (Elsinore) is of immense symbolic value to the Danish people and played a key role in the history of northern Europe in the 16th-18th centuries. Work began on the construction of this outstanding Renaissance castle in 1574, and its defences were reinforced according to the canons of the period's military architecture in the late 17th century. It has remained intact to the present day. It is world-renowned as Elsinore, the setting of Shakespeare's Hamlet.

Location on Map

Show bigger map on Openstreetmap

Introduction

Kronborg Castle, located in the City of Helsingør on the Island of Sjaelland in the Capital Region of Denmark, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its historical significance and architectural grandeur. This majestic Renaissance castle has played a crucial role in Danish history and continues to captivate visitors with its rich heritage and stunning beauty.

History

The history of Kronborg Castle dates back to the 15th century when a fortress was built on the site to control the entrance to the Baltic Sea and collect tolls from passing ships. Over the centuries, the fortress was expanded and transformed into a magnificent castle under the reign of King Frederick II in the late 16th century.

During the Renaissance period, Kronborg Castle became a center of power and a symbol of Danish wealth and influence. It served as the royal residence and a venue for lavish celebrations, including the famous Shakespearean play "Hamlet," which immortalized the castle in literature.

However, Kronborg Castle's significance extended beyond its cultural and artistic contributions. It played a crucial role in Danish history, serving as a strategic stronghold during conflicts with Sweden and as a symbol of Danish sovereignty. The castle's fortifications were continuously improved to withstand sieges and attacks, making it an impregnable fortress.

Current State

Today, Kronborg Castle stands as a remarkable testament to Danish history and architecture. The castle underwent extensive restoration in the 19th century to restore its original splendor, and it has been meticulously preserved ever since.

Visitors to Kronborg Castle can explore its magnificent halls, chambers, and courtyards, which showcase the opulence and grandeur of the Renaissance era. The Great Hall, adorned with intricate tapestries and ornate decorations, is a highlight of the castle. The Chapel, with its stunning frescoes and beautiful altar, is another must-see attraction.

The castle's underground casemates, once used for military purposes, now house the Danish Maritime Museum. This museum offers a fascinating insight into Denmark's maritime history, with exhibits showcasing ancient ships, navigational instruments, and maritime artifacts.

Furthermore, Kronborg Castle hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including concerts, theater performances, and reenactments. These events bring the castle to life, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Lilla Strandgatan

Address
Distance: 2,9 mi
Lilla Strandgatan 5
252 23 Helsingborg
Denmark

Time Information

Checkout: 11:00 - Checkin: 16:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

Videos from the area

Kronborg Castle - Denmark

Published: September 10, 2013
Length: 01:50 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Vladimir Butorac

Located on a strategically important site commanding the Sund, the stretch of water between Denmark and Sweden, the Royal castle of Kronborg at Helsingør (Elsinore) is of immense symbolic...

Kronborg Shakespeare Hamlet Castle Royal UNESCO World Heritage Denmark by BK Bazhe.com

Published: March 25, 2012
Length: 13:06 min
Rating: 3 of 5
Author: BK Bazhe

Amazon Books Art Multimedia by BK Bazhe: http://www.amazon.com/Damages-ebook/dp/B007WVO3NA/ Hamlet's Castle - http://www.BAZHE.com Kronborg Castle, or Hamlet's Castle, immortalized by ...

Topview from Kronborg Slot i Danmark

Published: October 26, 2010
Length: 57:54 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Smilesignature

Rundblick från Slottets Torn, omkring 200 trappor upp över Helsingör och blick till Sverige. *** Rundumblick vom Turm des Schlosses ca. 200 Treppen hoch, über Helsingör und Blick nach...

Kronborg Slot, Denmark 哈姆雷特城堡

Published: June 23, 2012
Length: 52:49 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: James Wu

Danish King Frederik II 1559 to 1588, He built the building and the walls are high and deep moat of the castle. He also collected the conquest of the vessel transit tax. An immortal works of...

Kulturhavn Kronborg

Published: October 07, 2013
Length: 12:14 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Realdania

Et landskabsprojekt for havneområdet mellem Kronborg og Helsingør Værft har revitaliseret området og gjort det historiske monument til en del af den moderne by.

Videos provided by Youtube are under the copyright of their owners.

Near airports

Ängelholm-Helsingborg Airport
Medium airport - 20 mi (32 km)

Copenhagen Kastrup Airport
Large airport - 29 mi (47 km)

Copenhagen Roskilde Airport
Medium airport - 37 mi (59 km)

Malmö Sturup Airport
Large airport - 45 mi (74 km)

Halmstad Airport
Medium airport - 46 mi (74 km)

Hässleholm Bokeberg Airport
Small airport - 49 mi (79 km)

Kristianstad Airport
Medium airport - 57 mi (93 km)

Gothenburg-Landvetter Airport
Large airport - 113 mi (182 km)

Aalborg Airport
Large airport - 128 mi (207 km)

Billund Airport
Large airport - 136 mi (219 km)