Frederik's Church (The Marble Church)
Copenhagen's iconic copper-domed masterpiece—a 145-year architectural triumph offering panoramic views and spiritual grandeur.
Frederik's Church, known as the Marble Church, is Copenhagen's most iconic religious landmark, crowned by a massive copper-green dome measuring 31 meters in diameter—one of Europe's largest. Located in the elegant Frederiksstaden district, this Baroque-inspired masterpiece took 145 years to complete, finally opening in 1894. Visitors can admire intricate marble interiors, climb the dome for panoramic city views, and experience world-class architecture in a serene, working parish church.
A brief summary to Frederik's Church
- Frederiksgade 4, Copenhagen, Indre By, 1265, DK
- +4533912706
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Climb the dome walkway for sweeping panoramic views of Copenhagen, including Amalienborg Palace and the Øresund Strait. Access is available daily at 1 PM during summer months and weekends during winter.
- Visit on a Friday or Saturday evening to hear wedding bells chiming—the church is extremely popular for ceremonies and the sound adds to the romantic atmosphere.
- Attend an organ concert or choir performance to experience the church's exceptional acoustics and one of Scandinavia's largest organs in action.
- Explore the surrounding Frederiksstaden district, including Amalienborg Palace and its museum, which are steps away and form a cohesive 18th-century royal neighborhood.
- Arrive early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene interior atmosphere with soft light filtering through tall windows illuminating the marble columns and frescoes.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Metro
Take the Copenhagen Metro (Lines M1 or M2) to Marmorkirken station, located directly beneath the church. Journey time from Central Station is approximately 3–5 minutes. Single tickets cost around 24–36 DKK depending on zones. The station exit leads directly to the church entrance on Frederiksgade.
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve the area, including routes 1A, 6A, and 26 which stop near Frederiksgade or Amalienborg. Journey time from Central Station is approximately 10–15 minutes depending on traffic. Single tickets cost around 24–36 DKK. The church is a short walk from several bus stops in the Frederiksstaden district.
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Walking
From Nyhavn, a pleasant 15–20 minute walk leads northeast through historic streets toward Frederiksstaden. The route is flat, well-paved, and passes through Copenhagen's most elegant neighborhoods. From Central Station, allow 20–25 minutes walking north and east through the city center. The area is pedestrian-friendly with clear signage.
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Bicycle
Copenhagen's extensive cycling infrastructure makes reaching the church straightforward. Bike rental stations are located throughout the city (approximately 30–50 DKK per day). The journey from Central Station takes 8–12 minutes via dedicated cycle lanes. Secure parking is available near the church entrance.
Frederik's Church location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Frederik's Church
A Monument to Royal Vision and Perseverance
Fredrik's Church stands as a testament to Danish resilience and ambition. Commissioned by King Frederik V in the mid-18th century, the church was designed by court architect Nicolai Eigtved as the centerpiece of Frederiksstaden, an ambitious new royal neighborhood. The foundation stone was laid in 1749 with great ceremony, intended to commemorate 300 years of royal family reign. However, the project's trajectory would prove far more complex than initially envisioned. After Eigtved's death in 1754, French architect Nicolas Henri Jardin redesigned significant portions of the structure. Financial constraints and political upheaval repeatedly halted construction. By 1770, Prime Minister Struensee cancelled the project entirely, deeming the original marble-clad design too costly. For over a century, the church site remained a picturesque ruin—a monument to abandoned ambition.From Ruin to Completion
The church's resurrection came through the determination of Danish pastor, poet, and educator N.F.S. Grundvig, whose advocacy attracted the support of wealthy industrialist Carl Frederik Tietgen. Recognizing the cultural significance of completing the structure, Tietgen provided the necessary financial backing and commissioned architect Ferdinand Meldahl to oversee construction. Due to budget constraints, Meldahl substituted limestone blocks for the original Norwegian marble in certain sections, though the lower portions remain primarily Norwegian marble with Danish Faxe marble in the upper sections. After 145 years of intermittent effort, the church was finally consecrated on 19 August 1894.Architectural Grandeur and Interior Splendor
The church's most striking feature is its massive copper-green dome, which dominates Copenhagen's skyline and ranks among the largest in Europe. The circular nave rises approximately 46 meters high, supported by 12 monumental pillars that carry the 31-meter-diameter dome. The interior enchants visitors with soft light filtering through tall windows, illuminating intricate marble columns, sculptures, and frescoes. The dome's interior features frescoes depicting the Apostles, painted by Chresten Overgaard, with 12 symbolic medallions below and baroque altar motifs from the 42nd Psalm. The church houses one of Scandinavia's largest organs, renowned for its exceptional acoustics and beautiful sound. Notable artistic elements include German woodcarving in the chapel front, a German ivory cross in the choir, and commemorative reliefs. The high altar features a magnificent altarpiece depicting the Ascension of Christ. The church's design draws inspiration from St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, reflecting Enlightenment ideals of reason, order, and harmony.A Living Parish and Cultural Hub
Despite its monumental scale and historical significance, Frederik's Church functions as an active Evangelical-Lutheran parish church, part of Denmark's state church system. The building serves multiple roles: a venue for spiritual worship, a concert hall hosting performances that showcase its exceptional acoustics, and one of Copenhagen's most sought-after wedding venues. The dome walkway, accessible seasonally, offers panoramic views stretching from Amalienborg Palace to the Øresund Strait, making it a premier vantage point for experiencing the city's geography and architecture.Symbolism and Artistic Vision
The church's design embodies profound symbolism. The dome represents the heavens, while the 12 pillars symbolize the pillars of society. The surrounding statues tell stories of Danish and European religious history—street-level figures depict notable Danish church figures, while rooftop statues honor important figures from broader church history, ranging from Moses to Martin Luther. This architectural narrative transforms the building into a three-dimensional chronicle of faith and cultural achievement.Integration with Frederiksstaden's Urban Landscape
Fredrik's Church anchors the Frederiksstaden district, an 18th-century urban masterpiece that remains one of Copenhagen's most elegant neighborhoods. The church's position creates a harmonious alignment with Amalienborg Palace and the Royal Opera House, forming a triumvirate of cultural and royal significance. This carefully planned urban composition reflects Enlightenment ideals of civic design and continues to define Copenhagen's character as a capital city.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hans Christian Andersen plaque
0.3 km
A modest plaque on elegant Amaliegade quietly marks Hans Christian Andersen’s presence amid the formal mansions and palace axis of Copenhagen’s Frederiksstaden.
St. Paul's Church
0.4 km
Neo‑Romanesque red brick meets ochre-yellow naval housing at this calm parish church, giving Nyboder a quiet spiritual heart amid central Copenhagen.
Sankt Annæ Pl.
0.4 km
Historic square blending royal heritage, climate innovation, and urban livability in central Copenhagen.
Larsens Pl.
0.4 km
Historic waterfront where Scandinavian dreams embarked for America, now a refined promenade of heritage and harbour views.
Stromma Canal Tours Copenhagen
0.5 km
A lush botanical oasis at the heart of Copenhagen, featuring historic glasshouses, rare Nordic plants, tranquil lakes, and immersive gardens for every season.
I am Queen Mary
0.5 km
A powerful harborfront monument honoring rebel leader Mary Thomas, confronting Copenhagen’s colonial past beside the historic West Indian Warehouse.
Wilhelm Hansens Hus
0.5 km
Former home of Denmark’s leading music publisher, quietly anchoring Gothersgade’s elegant streets between royal gardens and lively Kongens Nytorv.
Horn mine
0.6 km
A disarmed World War II naval mine displayed in Churchill Park, turning a former weapon of the sea into a quiet reminder of conflict amid central Copenhagen’s greenery.
Our Fallen
0.6 km
A bronze tribute to World War II sacrifice, standing sentinel at Kastellet's gate since 1957.
St Alban's Church
0.6 km
Copenhagen's only Anglican church, a Gothic Revival gem built by royal patronage in 1887.
Gefion Fountain
0.7 km
A powerful Norse creation myth cast in bronze and spray, the Gefion Fountain unites legend, sculpture and harbor light on the edge of Churchillparken.
Copenhagen Opera House
0.7 km
An architectural landmark on Copenhagen’s harbor, the Opera House blends Scandinavian design with world-class performances and spectacular waterfront views.
Kastellet
0.8 km
Explore Kastellet, Copenhagen's historic fortress showcasing stunning architecture, lush greenery, and a glimpse into Denmark's rich military past.
Inderhavnsbroen
0.8 km
Copenhagen's iconic curved 'kissing bridge' where innovation meets the Inner Harbour.
ZinkGlobal by Kim Michael
0.8 km
Aarhus University Park blends modernist architecture, landscaped gardens, and tranquil lakes to create an inviting oasis at the heart of Denmark’s vibrant student city.
Unmissable attractions to see
St. Alexander Nevsky Church
0.1 km
Explore the evolution of design at Copenhagen's premier museum, housed in a historic rococo building.
Amalienborg Palace Museum
0.2 km
Step behind the facades of Copenhagen’s royal square to explore intimate apartments, glittering gala halls and Fabergé treasures at Amalienborg Palace Museum.
Medicinsk Museion
0.2 km
Historic surgical academy turned cutting‑edge medical museum, where preserved bodies, instruments and contemporary science exhibitions reveal how we understand health and disease.
Amalienborg
0.2 km
Discover the majestic Rosenborg Castle—home to Denmark’s Crown Jewels, regal interiors, and lush gardens—offering a journey through centuries of royal Danish history.
Rytterstatuen
0.2 km
A surreal subterranean art museum beneath Søndermarken Park, fusing Copenhagen’s 19th-century waterworks with modern installations and immersive experiences.
Bredgade Kunsthandel
0.2 km
Refined contemporary art gallery on Copenhagen’s Bredgade, where Danish and international works unfold in bright, minimalist rooms just steps from royal and design landmarks.
Amaliegade
0.2 km
A stately Copenhagen street where Rococo townhouses, royal colonnades and diplomatic mansions line a calm axis through the heart of Frederiksstaden.
Designmuseum Danmark
0.3 km
Copenhagen’s temple of design, where rococo halls, iconic Danish chairs and a tranquil garden reveal how beautifully made objects shape everyday life.
Nyboder
0.3 km
Historic naval home preserving four centuries of Danish maritime family life in a single yellow row house.
Springvandet i Amaliehaven af Arnaldo Pomodoro
0.4 km
A dramatic bronze fountain at the heart of Amaliehaven, where modern sculpture, royal views and harbor breezes meet in a tranquil geometric garden.
Amaliehaven
0.4 km
A small but beautifully composed waterfront garden weaving royal vistas, sculpture, and harbor views into a calm green oasis in central Copenhagen.
Bredgade 18
0.4 km
A quietly elegant address on Copenhagen’s grand Bredgade, surrounded by Frederiksstaden’s mansions, churches and design showrooms in the heart of the city.
Copenhagen Amber Museum
0.5 km
A tiny 17th‑century townhouse on Kongens Nytorv where Baltic amber, ancient insects and Scandinavian craft turn deep time into a warm, golden museum experience.
The David Collection
0.5 km
Scandinavia's premier Islamic art museum, housed in a historic townhouse with free admission year-round.
Indre By
0.5 km
A storied sanctuary in Nørrebro, Assistens Cemetery blends tranquil nature, remarkable history, and the celebrated graves of Danish luminaries.
Essential places to dine
Aoc
0.2 km
Two Michelin stars of bold Nordic flavors in a historic 17th-century cellar.
Restaurant Rebel
0.2 km
Seasonal Danish produce meets French technique at this relaxed, MICHELIN-recommended bistro on Store Kongensgade, where an open kitchen and inventive plates define the mood.
Restaurant Vita
0.3 km
Historic Danish dining in a former royal pharmacy, serving traditional smørrebrød and national classics.
Restaurant Koefoed
0.4 km
Fine dining in a historic coal cellar celebrating Bornholm's culinary traditions and Danish gastronomy.
Den Lille Fede
0.4 km
Cosy, candlelit tasting-menu restaurant near Kongens Nytorv, where playful Nordic-inspired courses and thoughtful wine pairings turn dinner into an unhurried evening event.
Kokkeriet
0.4 km
Intimate Michelin-starred townhouse in central Copenhagen, reimagining classic Danish cuisine as elegant modern tasting menus with curated wines and juices.
Goldfinch
0.5 km
Stylish Cantonese-inspired dining and cocktails on historic Kongens Nytorv, pairing shareable plates with a moody interior in the heart of Copenhagen.
Nyhavns Færgekro
0.5 km
Classic Danish cooking and a famed herring buffet in a cozy canal-side tavern, set within one of Nyhavn’s colorful townhouses overlooking Copenhagen’s historic harbor.
Cap Horn
0.5 km
Candlelit Nordic bistro in a historic Nyhavn townhouse, blending classic Danish seafood, canal views and cosy hygge from late morning to late evening.
Bistro Royal
0.5 km
Elegant all‑day French‑Danish bistro on Kongens Nytorv, pairing brasserie classics with prime people‑watching and a lively, chandelier‑lit atmosphere.
Skipperkroen
0.5 km
Harbourfront smørrebrød and seafood in an 18th‑century Nyhavn house, pairing classic Danish flavours with canal views from cosy rooms and a lively terrace.
Restaurant Grønnegade
0.6 km
Seasonal Danish‑French fine dining in a 17th‑century Copenhagen townhouse, offering intimate, adults‑only evenings with polished service and thoughtful wine pairings.
Frank
0.6 km
A candlelit Copenhagen luxury bistro where an open kitchen, bold seasonal cooking and an exceptional wine list create an intimate, wine-lover’s evening.
Alouette
0.6 km
One‑Michelin‑star Green Star dining in a historic Copenhagen townhouse, where hyper‑seasonal Nordic tasting menus meet quietly striking design by the King’s Garden.
Khun Juk
0.6 km
Refined Thai dining tucked into Copenhagen’s iconic Nyhavn, where candlelit tables, fresh flowers and layered flavors turn dinner into an intimate evening event.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Royal Souvenir Shop
0.1 km
Compact and colourful, Royal Souvenir Shop on Bredgade distils Copenhagen into easy‑to‑pack gifts, from royal guards and Vikings to flags, mugs and playful keepsakes.
The Wilde Shop
0.4 km
A boutique vintage shop in Indre By, Copenhagen bringing together handpicked retro clothing, sustainable fashion, and curated Scandinavian style in a welcoming setting.
Zane
0.4 km
Intimate Copenhagen florist and design boutique on stylish Bredgade, blending seasonal blooms, Nordic homeware and thoughtful gifts in a cosy, lived-in space.
The Crown souvenir
0.5 km
Compact, colorful souvenir stop on elegant Amaliegade, perfect for picking up Danish flags, Little Mermaid trinkets and royal-themed keepsakes near Amalienborg.
Maritime Antiques &
0.5 km
Atmospheric basement shop near Nyhavn where genuine maritime antiques share space with heritage-inspired clothing and rugged knitwear in a cosy, ship-like setting.
Copenhagenglass
0.5 km
Intimate glassblowing studio and shop near Nyhavn, where Danish maritime-inspired designs and hands-on sessions turn molten glass into memorable Copenhagen souvenirs.
Copenhagen Souvenir & Design World of Memories
0.6 km
Denmark's largest souvenir chain with 14 locations offering over 2,000 authentic Danish keepsakes and contemporary design pieces.
Viking Souvenirs
0.6 km
Authentic Danish and Viking-themed souvenirs in Copenhagen's historic city center.
Danish Souvenirs & luggages
0.6 km
Central Strøget souvenir and luggage shop combining classic Danish mementos with practical travel gear, open long hours for convenient, last‑minute Copenhagen gifts.
Welcome Giftshop & Souvenirs
0.6 km
Central Copenhagen’s cosy hygge boutique for Danish design, classic souvenirs, and easy last-minute gifts just off bustling Kongens Nytorv square.
Storm - design art fashion
0.7 km
A pioneering Copenhagen concept store where avant-garde fashion, art, design objects and niche fragrances meet in a minimalist, gallery-like space on Store Regnegade.
Copenhagen Souvenir & Design
0.7 km
Denmark's premier souvenir destination offering authentic Danish heritage, contemporary design, and quality gifts across seven city-center locations.
Magasin du Nord
0.7 km
Copenhagen’s classic department store: historic architecture, Nordic style, gourmet treats and relaxed cafés gathered under one elegant roof on Kongens Nytorv.
Henrik Vibskov Boutique
0.7 km
Step off the cobblestones of Gammel Mønt into Henrik Vibskov’s offbeat fashion laboratory, where avant‑garde silhouettes, artful interiors and curated design collide.
Norse Projects
0.8 km
Scandi-cool flagship store pairing minimalist Nordic design with functional, all-season clothing in a calm, gallery-like space in central Copenhagen.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Black Swan
0.2 km
Craft-forward, cosy and unpretentious, Black Swan is Copenhagen’s inner-city local where rotating taps, serious cider and good conversation flow late into the night.
Aloha Beach Bar
0.5 km
Island-inspired cocktails, neon glow and late-night party vibes packed into a compact tropical bar just off Gothersgade in central Copenhagen.
Bar Deco
0.6 km
Intimate Art Deco–inspired cocktail bar near Kongens Nytorv, pairing crafted drinks with moody lighting and a relaxed, grown‑up Copenhagen atmosphere.
Brønnum
0.6 km
An opulent, multi‑room cocktail bar steps from Kongens Nytorv, where historic townhouse elegance meets contemporary mixology and candlelit late‑night conversation.
Balthazar
0.6 km
A luxurious Champagne bar at Hotel d’Angleterre, pairing an extensive bubbles list and crafted cocktails with velvet-luxe interiors and a lively DJ-backed ambience.
Trykbar
0.7 km
Cosy, central Copenhagen bar with a strong beer list, warm lighting and a laid-back, inclusive atmosphere that blends hygge with lively late-night energy.
1105
0.7 km
Intimate, dimly lit cocktail bar in Copenhagen’s 1105 postcode, pairing dark, elegant interiors with carefully crafted Nordic-inspired drinks and classic mixes.
The Moose
0.7 km
Graffiti-plastered walls, infamous moose murals and cheap late-night beers make this smoky Indre By dive bar a gritty, unpolished slice of Copenhagen nightlife.
TATA Cocktail Bar
0.7 km
A velvet-draped, fireplace-warmed cocktail hideaway inside Hotel Sanders, where classic mixology, Danish design and theatre-inspired charm blend seamlessly.
Charlie's Bar
0.8 km
Discover the enchanting atmosphere of Charlie's Bar, a cozy haven in Copenhagen offering a diverse drink selection and a vibrant local vibe.
Bo-Bi Bar
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Bo-Bi Bar, where delightful drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await.
Gejser Bar
0.9 km
Craft cocktails and Mediterranean cuisine in Copenhagen's most welcoming sophisticated bar.
Balderdash
0.9 km
Copenhagen’s candlelit cocktail laboratory in a 1732 townhouse, where hygge, art and daring seasonal drinks turn a quiet side street into an unforgettable night out.
K-Bar
1.0 km
Intimate harbourfront cocktail den in central Copenhagen, known for monochrome style, inventive infusions and quietly confident classics poured with real care.
The Dubliner
1.0 km
Lively Irish pub energy on Copenhagen’s Amagertorv, serving hearty pub classics, well-poured pints, live music and big-screen sport in a cosy, wood-lined setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
