Copenhagen - Palaces and Mermaids

As the capital of Denmark, Copenhagen is rich with royal history, classic fairy tales and traditional architecture. The city is easily one of Europe’s most seamless urban experiences and a destination on the rise with its timeless appeal garnering more interest every year. For an introspective look at Copenhagen, I have shared my experiences below and suggest a number of sights ones should explore whilst in Denmark.

Of all the historical landmarks in Denmark where better to start than the top of the Round Tower? I say this not only for its own unique past but because from here you can oversee most of Copenhagen and its multi-coloured roofs and skyline. Standing since the 17^th century, the Round Tower or Rundetaarn is currently the oldest functioning observatory in Europe.  Built to continue the work of the famous Tycho Brahe, the tower is still used by amateur astronomers and stargazers alike. The view of Copenhagen alone is a selling point but with the introduction of the floating glass floor, visitors can hover 25 metres above the ground and look down at the tower’s core. Come down from the heights of the tower, to warm up in Rosenborg Castle. Built by the famed Christian IV in the 17^th Century, the castle features 400 years of splendour, royal treasures and the monarchy’s Crown Jewels. Among the main attractions is the Knight’s Hall, complete with coronation thrones and three-life sized silver loins on guard duty. Rosenborg also houses a collection of Flora Danica and one of the world’s finest Venetian glass collections. The crowns of the Danish kings and queens are kept in the castle; within special vaults, and they are embellished with table-cut stones and gold ornamentation. Keeping up the theme of Palace, if you take the short journey to the island of Slotsholmen, the Danish Parliament building is within reach. The Christianborg Palace is used by the Royal Family for functions and events. The Throne Room gives access to the balcony where the Danish monarchs are proclaimed. Visitors should ensure that they gaze at the Unique Tapestries; belonging to the Queen, in The Great Hall. These striking features were ordered as a gift to commemorate her Majesty; Queen Margrethe II’s, 50^th birthday in 1990. Bjørn Norgaard painted the full-size sketches upon woven tapestries. After embracing Denmark’s royal history it's time for some fun at the second-oldest amusement park in the world, Tivoli Gardens.

Opened in 1843 by Georg Cartensen, the park is known the world over for its heritage, numerous attractions, theatres and Halloween and Christmas festivals. Many of the attractions cost extra, however, there are shows to keep you occupied; if you are not a fan of rides like me! I did muster the courage to embark on the Rutschebanen but nothing could get me on the Demon roller-coaster. Guests can also stay at the boutique 5* Nimb Hotel, ranked by Conde Nast Traveller as #40 on their list of the best hotels in the world.   To round off our look at Copenhagen, we have an iconic symbol of the city which stands a little over four feet tall; I speak of course about the Little Mermaid statue. Sculptured by Edvard Eriksen and modelled on the ballerina Ellen Price, the statue has been a tourist focal point ever since. Despite its prominence in the fairytale; the statue has been subject to vandalism many times, and on every occasion has been restored. The statue is credited for being the inspiration for many cities that have commissioned work in its likeness such as Singapore’s Merlion.