Tower

Overview

Perched atop Christiansborg Palace in Copenhagen, Denmark, 'The Tower' (Tårnet) offers an unparalleled vantage point over the city's charming rooftops and historic landmarks. At a commanding height of 106 meters, it stands as the tallest tower in Copenhagen, providing a free public viewing platform that opened its doors to visitors in June 2014. Beyond its panoramic vistas, The Tower also houses a celebrated restaurant, allowing guests to savor Danish cuisine amidst breathtaking surroundings. Christiansborg Palace itself is unique globally, serving as the home to all three branches of Denmark's government: the Parliament (Folketinget), the Prime Minister's Office, and the Supreme Court, with parts also used by the Danish monarch.

History & Cultural Background

The current Christiansborg Palace, including its distinctive Tower, is the third structure to stand on this historically significant site. Designed by architect Thorvald Jørgensen, the palace was constructed between 1907 and 1928, rising from the ashes of two devastating fires in 1794 and 1884 that destroyed its predecessors. For almost a century after its completion, the Tower remained largely inaccessible to the public, its upper reaches reserved only for parliamentary officers and, perhaps, pigeons. However, a pivotal initiative by the Speaker of Parliament in 2012 led to the decision to open these historical spaces, transforming former storage rooms into the now-welcoming public viewing area and restaurant.

What Makes It Special

The Tower distinguishes itself as Copenhagen's highest, soaring 106 meters into the sky—a full 40 centimeters taller than the City Hall tower. Its unique appeal lies not only in its stature but also in its accessibility; it offers a public viewing platform, located 44 meters above ground, which visitors can enjoy free of charge. Inside, the 'Restaurant Tårnet' provides a dining experience that combines classic Danish flavors with spectacular city views. The Tower's spire is adorned with eight striking copper figures, created by sculptor Axel Locher, which depict various trades and professions. Interestingly, early architectural plans were scaled back due to budget constraints, resulting in a tiled roof and only one crown. Public enthusiasm and fundraising efforts later ensured the replacement of tiles with copper and the addition of two more crowns, bringing the spire to its intended grandeur.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The transformation of The Tower's uppermost rooms from dusty storage spaces—locally known as 'pulterkamre'—into vibrant public areas for viewing and dining, in 2014, marked a significant moment for Copenhageners. The very space now housing the exquisite restaurant was originally conceived as the king's private bedroom within the palace's grand design. A fascinating detail within the restaurant is an octagonal bench that discreetly covers a dome, which in turn forms the ceiling for the Finance Committee's meeting room directly below—a crucial space within the Danish Parliament. Visitors should be aware that access to The Tower involves a security check akin to those at airports, and while entry to the viewing platform is free, there can be queues due to limited capacity at the top.

Visitor Perspective

A visit to The Tower at Christiansborg Palace promises an unforgettable experience, commencing with free access to its viewing platform. Upon entering through the King's Gate, located directly beneath the Tower, visitors are whisked upwards by a lift, as the stairs are not accessible to the public. From the 44-meter-high viewing point, a 360-degree panorama unfolds, revealing iconic Copenhagen sights. The experience is thoughtfully designed for all, offering wheelchair accessibility. Whether marveling at the city's architectural tapestry or enjoying a meal at the top, The Tower provides a unique and elevated perspective on Denmark's capital.