Background

Riberhus Slotsbanke

Medieval royal fortress where Queen Dagmar once reigned, now a haunting ruin with panoramic views of ancient Ribe.

4.3

Riberhus Slotsbanke is a historic castle ruin situated on the western outskirts of Ribe, Denmark. The site features an eight-metre-high earthen embankment surrounded by restored moats, remnants of a royal palace that once served Danish kings throughout the Middle Ages. A striking bronze statue of Queen Dagmar, created by sculptor Anne Marie Carl-Nielsen, stands on the southern corner, commemorating the legendary queen who lived here in the early 13th century. Today, this atmospheric landmark offers visitors a glimpse into medieval Danish royal history and panoramic views across the ancient town of Ribe.

A brief summary to Riberhus Slotsbanke

  • Erik Menveds Vej, Ribe, 6760, DK
  • +4576163939
  • Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

  • Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds. The elevated position offers excellent photography opportunities, especially with the moats reflecting the sky.
  • Combine your visit with a walk along Energistien, a scenic walking route that begins near the site and connects to other historic landmarks in Ribe.
  • The statue of Queen Dagmar on the southern corner is the focal point; approach from different angles to appreciate the sculpture and the views it commands.
  • Bring binoculars or a camera with good zoom to examine the remains of Skriverstuen on the eastern corner and spot the triangulation station on the northern point.
  • Wear sturdy footwear if you plan to climb the embankment; the grass can be damp, especially after rain or in winter months.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking from Ribe Town Centre

    From Ribe's historic centre, Riberhus Slotsbanke is accessible via a pleasant walk of approximately 10–15 minutes. Follow Erik Menveds Vej westward from the town; the site is clearly signposted. The route passes through residential areas and leads directly to the castle bank. No parking fees apply at the site itself, though limited free parking is available nearby. This option is ideal for those staying in Ribe and wishing to combine the visit with exploration of the medieval town.

  • Bicycle from Ribe

    Ribe is well-connected by cycling routes, and reaching Riberhus Slotsbanke by bicycle takes approximately 5–10 minutes from the town centre. The route follows flat terrain typical of the region. Bicycle rental is available in Ribe at several shops, with daily rates typically ranging from 80–150 Danish Krone. This option offers flexibility and allows visitors to continue along Energistien, a scenic cycling and walking route that connects multiple historic sites in the area.

  • Car from Esbjerg or surrounding towns

    Riberhus Slotsbanke is located approximately 30 kilometres south of Esbjerg and 15 kilometres north of the German border. From Esbjerg, drive south on Route 11 toward Ribe; the journey takes approximately 25–30 minutes. Follow signs for Ribe and then Erik Menveds Vej. Limited free parking is available at the site. This option is suitable for visitors exploring the broader Wadden Sea region or those without access to local transport.

  • Regional bus service

    Public buses serve Ribe from Esbjerg and other regional towns, with journey times of 30–45 minutes depending on the route and number of stops. Bus services are operated by regional transport authorities, with typical fares ranging from 50–100 Danish Krone. From Ribe bus station, the walk to Riberhus Slotsbanke is approximately 10–15 minutes. Check local schedules in advance, as frequency may vary seasonally.

Riberhus Slotsbanke location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies

Unlock the Best of Riberhus Slotsbanke

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Riberhus Slotsbanke

A Royal Castle Through the Ages

Riberhus was one of Denmark's most significant royal castles, built in the 1260s by King Eric V and serving as a favoured residence for Danish monarchs throughout the Middle Ages. The castle's name first appears in historical records in 1320, when it was mentioned in connection with King Christopher III's coronation agreement. For centuries, Riberhus remained a centre of power and prestige, hosting royal courts and serving as a symbol of the crown's authority in Jutland. The castle underwent major renovation in 1537 under King Christian III, who refurbished the deteriorating structure using bricks salvaged from St. John's Priory.

Queen Dagmar and Medieval Legend

The most enduring figure associated with Riberhus is Queen Dagmar, who arrived at the castle in the early 13th century following her marriage to King Valdemar the Victorious. According to historical accounts, Dagmar was brought from Bohemia to Denmark as a royal bride, and she became deeply embedded in Danish cultural memory. Her presence at Riberhus transformed the castle into a symbol of dynastic alliance and queenly virtue. Today, a bronze statue by sculptor Anne Marie Carl-Nielsen, unveiled in 1913, stands on the southern corner of the embankment as a tribute to this legendary queen, making her the most visible connection between modern visitors and the castle's medieval past.

Decline and Destruction

By the 15th century, Riberhus had fallen into disrepair despite its historical importance. The Swedish wars of the 17th century marked the beginning of the end for the castle's role as a military stronghold. After these conflicts, the fortress lost its strategic value and was gradually dismantled. The last recorded administrator, Otte Krag, served from 1655 to 1658, after which the castle was abandoned. Over subsequent centuries, bricks and building materials from the ruins were repurposed for local churches and other construction projects throughout the region, a common practice that slowly erased the physical structure while preserving its memory.

Restoration and Modern Preservation

In 1940 and 1941, the National Museum of Denmark undertook a comprehensive excavation and restoration of the site. The moats, which had become silted and overgrown, were carefully cleaned and refilled with water, restoring the castle bank to its original appearance. The embankment, measuring approximately 90 metres by 90 metres and rising about eight metres above the surrounding countryside, was stabilized and made accessible to visitors. The remains of Skriverstuen, the Scribe's House, which once stood on the eastern corner, remain visible as a tangible link to the castle's administrative functions. A triangulation station now occupies the northern corner, a practical addition that does not diminish the site's historical significance.

The Landscape and Visitor Experience

Riberhus Slotsbanke occupies a commanding position on the western edge of Ribe, offering panoramic views across the medieval town and surrounding countryside. The restored moats create a striking visual frame around the earthen mound, evoking the castle's former defensive purpose and architectural grandeur. The site is easily accessible from Ribe's town centre, a short walk through historic streets that themselves reflect centuries of Danish settlement and culture. The combination of the imposing embankment, the serene water-filled moats, and the iconic statue of Queen Dagmar creates an atmosphere that invites contemplation of Denmark's royal heritage and medieval power structures.

Busiest months of the year

Busiest hours of the day

Popular Experiences near Riberhus Slotsbanke

Popular Hotels near Riberhus Slotsbanke

Select Currency