Royal Reception Rooms

Overview

Nestled within the majestic Christiansborg Palace on Slotsholmen island in Copenhagen, Denmark, the Royal Reception Rooms offer a captivating glimpse into the Danish monarchy's ceremonial life. These grand chambers, located on the first floor (the so-called 'bel étage'), serve as the backdrop for significant royal events, from New Year's levees and gala banquets to ambassadorial audiences. While the reigning monarch no longer resides here, these rooms remain actively used by the Royal Family, ensuring their continued relevance and splendor.

As you step through the King's Staircase, you embark on a journey through lavishly decorated spaces, each with its own story and artistic treasures. The Royal Reception Rooms are a unique blend of historical artifacts and contemporary art, featuring pieces salvaged from the two previous palaces that stood on this site, alongside works by acclaimed Danish artists.

History & Cultural Background

Christiansborg Palace itself boasts a history spanning over 800 years, establishing its role as Denmark's center of power since the early 15th century. The current palace is the third iteration to stand on this historic ground, a testament to resilience after devastating fires in 1794 and 1884. The Royal Reception Rooms, as we see them today, were inaugurated with a grand celebration on January 12, 1928, marking the official completion of the third Christiansborg Palace.

This particular iteration was constructed between 1907 and 1928, specifically designed to house not only the Royal Reception Rooms but also the Danish Parliament (Folketinget), the Supreme Court, and the Prime Minister's Office. This unique cohabitation of legislative, judicial, and executive powers, alongside royal functions, makes Christiansborg Palace a symbol of Denmark's democratic monarchy and historical continuity.

What Makes It Special

The true magic of the Royal Reception Rooms lies in their opulent decorations and the stories they tell. The Great Hall, the largest and arguably most impressive of the rooms, stretches 40 meters long with a soaring 10-meter ceiling. Its walls are adorned with the magnificent Bjørn Nørgaard tapestries, a gift to Queen Margrethe II for her 50th birthday in 1990. These 17 tapestries vividly depict 1,000 years of Danish history, from the Viking Age to the year 2000, offering a dynamic visual narrative.

Another highlight is the oval Throne Room, where foreign ambassadors present their credentials to the King. From its balcony, Danish monarchs have traditionally been proclaimed. The room features a grand ceiling painting by Kræsten Iversen, illustrating the legend of the Danish flag, Dannebrog, falling from the sky in Estonia in 1219. The Fredensborg Room is notable for Laurits Tuxen's large painting depicting Christian IX and Queen Louise with their extensive family at Fredensborg Palace.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

One fascinating detail is that some of the exquisite furniture and artworks within the Reception Rooms were rescued from the fires that destroyed the previous Christiansborg Palaces. For instance, the long mahogany dining table in the Dining Hall was ingeniously crafted from the salvaged steps and handrails of the previous palace's King's Stairway.

The tapestry series by Bjørn Nørgaard in the Great Hall not only chronicles Denmark's past but also includes the artist's own face, cleverly incorporated into the marbling on the walls, alongside that of the Queen. The Fredensborg Room's painting indirectly highlights Christian IX's moniker as 'The Father-in-law of Europe,' due to his children marrying into several European royal houses, fostering strong family ties across the continent.

Visitor Perspective

Exploring the Royal Reception Rooms offers visitors a unique opportunity to walk in the footsteps of royalty and experience the grandeur of official Danish state occasions. While the rooms are actively used by the Royal Family, they are open to the public on most days. Guided tours are often available and can enhance the experience by providing deeper insights into the history, art, and cultural significance of each room. It's advisable to check opening hours in advance, as closures can occur for royal functions. Beyond the Reception Rooms, a visit to Christiansborg Palace often includes opportunities to explore the palace chapel, the ruins beneath the palace, and the royal stables, providing a comprehensive historical journey.