Koldinghus - Jylland´s last royal castle
Photo: VisitKolding
Koldinghus is much more than a museum. See the remains of the ruin that tells of the disaster fire in 1808 or experience the story very closely when there are living tales in the castles' rooms and see modern design when the design school exhibits their graduation projects.
Throughout its more than 700 years of existence, Koldinghus Castle has played a significant role in Denmark’s history as a border guard and as one of the royal family’s favourite castles. It was the first to be used exclusively as a royal residence. King Christian III died here on new year’s day in 1559. King Christian IV spend a significant part of his childhood and youth here. The Castle lost its importance as more and more of the duties of the Royal family moved to the capital. King Frederik IV was the last king to live in the castle, but it was only temporary, while the plague was raging in Copenhagen.
The giant tower "Kæmpetårnet" is named after the four statues of giants from the Greek and Roman myths who stood at the top of the tower. Today only Hercules remains.
The magnificent castle was left and fell more and more into decay, and when soldiers stayed there in connection with the war against England and Sweden in 1807, a large fire broke out, leaving the castle in ruins. The ruins stood untouched for many years, while the ravages of time threatened to destroy the castle completely.
Koldinghus for children
If you would like to be king or queen for a day, then visit the dressing workshop where you can try one of the many beautiful Renaissance suits, here is something for girls and boys. There are fine costumes to dress up in, a dungeon with a ghost story and a task for the clever detective
In 2018, there were 6 couples in Denmark who could celebrate 75 years of their wedding day - also called Atomic Wedding, and 119 couples who could celebrate 70 years together which is Iron Wedding.
The rebuilding of Koldinghus after the fire took a long time - it took over 100 years before the Giant Tower was rebuilt and the whole castle was under roof.
Slotssøen in Kolding
The castle lake in Kolding was built around 1570 and was for many years the property of the monarch and therefore no fishing or sailing on the lake was allowed. However, there was a small rowboat on the lake if now, a royal guest wanted a fishing trip.
Around the castle lake lies the love path " Kærlilghedsstien" and the walk around is along the lake is widely used. During the summer the free concert is organized and there are activities on the lake for this year's cultural night in Kolding and the Kolding Light Festival ends each year with a large fireworks by the lake.
Madkælderen at Koldinghus
The Madkælderen at Koldinghus serves a large traditional Danish lunch buffet every day with homemade classic dishes, so if you want to try the good Danish smørrebrød, Madkælderen is a good choice.
On Thursday, Friday and Saturday the menu is set with exquisite Danish ingredients from small local producers in the area. Enjoy a 4 course menu with matching wines and a great atmosphere. You are also welcome inn Madkælderen without paying entrance to the museum.
Souvenir shop at Koldinghus
At Koldinghus you will also find a small fine shop. The store sells souvenirs for both children and adults, but also local merchandise. Here you will find a selection of items from George Jensen Damask and local foods. The store also has a large selection of books on Kolding, Koldinghus and the current exhibitions as well as a selection of silver from George Jensen.
You can look into the shop when you visit the castle, but you are also welcome to visit the shop at Koldinghus, without paying entrance to the exhibitions at Koldinghus.
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