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Danmarks Borgcenter

Medieval Danish power brought to life through ruins, towers, and cutting-edge digital storytelling.

4.4

A cutting-edge digital museum set within the ruins of medieval Vordingborg Castle, one of Denmark's most important royal fortresses. Explore 3.7 hectares of castle grounds featuring the iconic 36-meter Goose Tower, interactive iPad-guided exhibitions, and immersive experiences that bring medieval Danish power and politics to life. Perfect for history enthusiasts and families seeking hands-on engagement with Denmark's royal heritage.

A brief summary to Danmarks Borgcenter

  • Slotsruinen 1, Vordingborg, 4760, DK
  • +4570701236
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Mixed
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on weekday mornings for fewer crowds and a more peaceful exploration of the castle grounds and exhibitions.
  • The iPad guide is essential to the experience—take time to explore both indoor exhibits and outdoor ruins with the multimedia content for full immersion.
  • Climb the Goose Tower for panoramic views across Vordingborg and the sound, but wear sturdy shoes as the stone steps can be slippery.
  • Allow 2–3 hours for a thorough visit; families with children enjoying the Ghost Hunt game may need additional time.
  • Bring your own snacks and drinks, as the on-site café has limited hours; picnic areas are available throughout the grounds.
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Getting There

  • Train from Copenhagen

    Direct regional trains depart Copenhagen Central Station to Vordingborg approximately every 30–60 minutes, with journey times of 50–70 minutes depending on service type. Tickets cost approximately 150–200 DKK one-way. From Vordingborg Station, the town centre and Danmarks Borgcenter are a 10–15 minute walk downhill towards the waterfront, or a short taxi ride (approximately 60–100 DKK).

  • Car from Copenhagen

    Drive south from Copenhagen via the E47 motorway towards Vordingborg, approximately 60 kilometres and 50–70 minutes depending on traffic. Parking is available near the castle centre; the museum recommends parking at Voldgade and walking across Slotstorvet to the entrance. Dedicated handicap parking spaces are located near Slotstorvet on Færgegårdsvej.

  • Bus from Copenhagen

    Regional bus services operate from Copenhagen to Vordingborg with journey times of 60–90 minutes and fares approximately 100–150 DKK. Services run several times daily but less frequently than trains. Buses arrive at Vordingborg town centre, from which the castle is a 10–15 minute walk.

  • Bicycle from Vordingborg town

    If arriving by train or bus, rent a bicycle in Vordingborg town centre (rental shops available near the station) for a scenic 2–3 kilometre ride to the castle. The route follows flat terrain along the waterfront, taking approximately 10–15 minutes. Bicycle parking is available at the museum entrance.

Danmarks Borgcenter location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Danmarks Borgcenter

Medieval Power and Royal Legacy

Danmarks Borgcenter occupies the grounds of Vordingborg Castle, once Denmark's largest royal fortress and seat of power for three legendary Valdemar kings. Spanning 3.7 hectares, the castle was first built in the 1160s and became a political and military centre that shaped Danish medieval history. The most striking feature is the iconic Goose Tower, built by Valdemar IV in the 1360s and standing 36 metres high—Denmark's best-preserved castle tower. According to legend, Valdemar IV placed a golden goose atop the tower to mock the German Hanseatic League during their conflict, claiming he feared cackling geese more than the entire League. This symbol of defiance remains one of Vordingborg's most recognizable landmarks.

High-Tech Immersion in Medieval History

The modern museum experience centres on an innovative iPad-guided system that transforms how visitors engage with history. Upon arrival, each visitor receives an iPad loaded with multimedia content, allowing independent exploration of both indoor exhibitions and outdoor ruins. As you stand amid castle foundations, the iPad reveals what Vordingborg looked like in the 1300s through augmented reality overlays. The main exhibition, titled 'MAGT' (Power), delves into the intricate world of medieval authority—exploring kings, queens, churches, weapons, jewellery, and the complex power structures that defined the era. Children can access specially curated stories by tapping a crown symbol, making the experience engaging for younger audiences.

Interactive Adventures and Ghost Hunt

Beyond traditional exhibits, Danmarks Borgcenter offers the Ghost Hunt experience—a Pokémon Go-style game where visitors chase medieval monsters and supernatural creatures believed to haunt the castle grounds. This innovative activity encourages exploration of the entire site while learning about medieval folklore and mythology. The castle grounds feature gravel pathways that wind through the ruins, allowing visitors to follow the outline of the ancient moat and discover remnants of the fortress's nine original towers. The experience combines scholarly depth with playful engagement, appealing equally to serious history buffs and families seeking adventure.

The Goose Tower and Underground Wonders

Climbing the Goose Tower rewards visitors with panoramic views across Vordingborg and the Storstrøm sound. The tower currently hosts the 'MONSTER' exhibition, featuring twelve creatures from medieval folklore that inhabited the tower's deep cellars, hidden chambers, and historic floors. This immersive display brings ancient myths and mysteries to life, transforming the tower into a gateway between past and present. An entirely new underground exhibition space features intriguing projections, street art, and authentic medieval artefacts, creating a magical atmosphere enhanced by the centre's custom soundtrack that shifts and evolves as you move through different areas.

Accessibility and Visitor Amenities

The site prioritizes accessibility with gravel pathways throughout the protected ruins and wheelchair-accessible entrances via Slotstorvet. While the Goose Tower lacks lift access, the main exhibition building is fully accessible. Visitors may bring their own food and enjoy outdoor dining areas with views of the castle grounds. A café operates seasonally with beverages and light refreshments. For visually impaired visitors, the audioguide reads all exhibition text aloud, and companion passes are available for disabled visitors with valid documentation. Parking is recommended at nearby Voldgade, with dedicated handicap spaces near Slotstorvet.

Seasonal Rhythms and Historical Significance

Danmarks Borgcenter operates year-round with extended hours during school holidays and special events. The site holds profound historical importance—in 1241, the Codex Holmiensis (Danish Code of Jutland) was signed at Vordingborg, establishing crucial legal foundations for the Danish kingdom. The castle's strategic location on the Storstrøm sound made it vital to Denmark's medieval defence and commerce. Today, the centre honours this legacy while embracing contemporary museum practice, creating a bridge between scholarly research and public engagement that makes medieval Danish history tangible and compelling.

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