Frederiksborg Castle Chapel

Denmark's most exquisite royal chapel—a 400-year-old sanctuary of Baroque splendor and unbroken spiritual tradition.

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Frederiksborg Castle Chapel

A masterpiece of Baroque art and Renaissance craftsmanship, Frederiksborg Castle Chapel stands as one of Denmark's most significant religious and historical spaces. Built between 1606 and 1617 by King Christian IV, this ornate chapel miraculously survived the devastating castle fire of 1859 with its original interior largely intact. Today it serves as both a museum space and active parish church, housing priceless artifacts including the 400-year-old Compenius organ and an exquisite gold and silver altarpiece, while functioning as the ceremonial chapel for Denmark's highest orders of chivalry.

A brief summary to Frederiksborg Castle Chapel

Frederiksborg Slot, Hillerød, 3400, DK
+4570230393
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Budget
Indoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

Visit on Thursday at 13:30 for a free 30-minute recital on the historic Compenius organ, the oldest organ in continuous use in Denmark. This intimate musical experience brings the chapel's 400-year history to life.
Arrive early in the morning (around 10:00 when the museum opens) to experience the chapel in quieter conditions and appreciate its architectural details without crowds.
Take time to view the chapel from the upper gallery to fully appreciate the six-vaulted stucco ceiling and the spatial grandeur that Christian IV intended.
Explore the King's Oratory adjacent to the chapel to see Carl Bloch's 23 paintings depicting the life of Christ and understand the chapel's role as the royal family's private devotional space.
After visiting the chapel, walk through Frederiksborg Castle's Baroque gardens and around the castle lake for stunning exterior views and a complete understanding of the complex's architectural magnificence.

Getting There

S-train from Copenhagen

Take the S-train line A from Copenhagen Central Station (København H) to Hillerød Station. Journey time approximately 35-40 minutes. From Hillerød Station, walk 15-20 minutes through the charming historic streets of Hillerød toward the castle, or take local bus 301 or 302 directly to Frederiksborg Slot stop. Train tickets cost approximately 80-100 DKK for adults; Copenhagen Card holders travel free.
Car from Copenhagen

Drive north from central Copenhagen via Route 16 toward Hillerød. Journey time approximately 40 minutes depending on traffic. The castle offers both paid and free parking options near the main entrance. Free parking is available in designated areas; paid parking typically costs 40-60 DKK for a full day. From parking, walk approximately 10 minutes through the gardens to reach the chapel entrance.
Guided tour from Copenhagen

Book a half-day or full-day guided coach tour departing from central Copenhagen. Most tours include round-trip transportation, museum admission, and guided commentary about the chapel and castle. Tours typically depart at 09:00-10:00 and return by 15:00-16:00. Prices range from 400-600 DKK per person including admission.
Bicycle from Hillerød town center

Rent a bicycle in Hillerød town center and cycle to Frederiksborg Castle via scenic routes around the castle lake. Journey time approximately 15-20 minutes depending on route chosen. Bicycle rental costs approximately 100-150 DKK per day. This option offers flexibility and allows you to explore the surrounding landscape at leisure.

Frederiksborg Castle Chapel location weather suitability

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Discover more about Frederiksborg Castle Chapel

A Royal Vision in Stone and Gilt

When King Christian IV commissioned the construction of Frederiksborg Castle Chapel in 1606, he envisioned nothing less than the grandest royal chapel in Europe. No expense was spared in realizing this ambition. Skilled craftsmen were summoned from across the continent—from Hamburg, Italy, and beyond—to create an interior of unparalleled splendor. The chapel's construction took eleven years, finally completed in 1617, and represents the pinnacle of Renaissance and early Baroque design in Scandinavia. Its location within the western wing of Frederiksborg Castle, itself the largest Renaissance residence in Scandinavia, underscores the chapel's significance as the spiritual heart of Danish royal power.

Treasures That Survived the Flames

On a fateful night in 1859, a catastrophic fire swept through Frederiksborg Castle, consuming vast portions of the structure and destroying much of its interior. Yet the chapel proved remarkably resilient. While the castle required extensive reconstruction, the chapel emerged virtually unscathed, preserving its original decoration and furnishings in their authentic 17th-century state. This survival makes it an invaluable historical document, allowing visitors to experience the chapel exactly as Christian IV knew it. The chapel's escape from destruction was nothing short of miraculous, and today it stands as the most authentic representation of the king's original vision. Among the treasures that survived are the magnificent altarpiece crafted by Hamburg goldsmith Jacob Mores in 1606, fashioned from gold, silver, and ebony with intricate detailing. The chapel's richly decorated interior features gilded and painted stucco vaults, apostle figures positioned in recesses, and symbolic representations of royal authority and divine purpose woven throughout the architectural scheme. Unique intarsia work adorns the wooden pews, while stained-glass windows cast colored light across the sacred space.

The Compenius Organ: A Living Legacy

Perhaps the chapel's most celebrated artifact is the Compenius organ, built in 1610 by master craftsman Esajas Compenius and installed by the builder himself shortly before his death in Hillerød in 1617. This instrument, with its 1,001 wooden pipes and hand-powered bellows, ranks among the oldest organs in continuous use anywhere in the world. Its case is richly decorated with ebony, ivory, and silver, reflecting the craftsmanship of its era. Every Thursday at 13:30, the chapel resonates with the organ's distinctive voice during a free 30-minute recital, a tradition that connects modern visitors directly to centuries of musical heritage.

Coronations, Anointments, and Royal Ceremony

From the establishment of absolute monarchy in 1660 until 1840, Frederiksborg Castle Chapel served as the anointment chapel for Danish kings, a role of profound ceremonial and spiritual significance. Here, Denmark's monarchs were anointed in elaborate rituals that affirmed their divine right to rule. The chapel witnessed the coronations and sacred ceremonies that marked the succession of Danish royal power, making it one of Europe's most historically significant religious spaces. Since 1693, it has also functioned as the ceremonial chapel for Denmark's two highest orders of chivalry: the Order of the Elephant and the Order of the Dannebrog. The walls of the chapel's gallery display the coats of arms of Knights of the Order of the Elephant and Grand Commanders of the Order of the Dannebrog, including honors bestowed upon international figures such as Nelson Mandela and distinguished Danes including Mærsk McKinney Møller and physicist Niels Bohr.

Architecture and Artistic Splendor

The chapel's architectural design reflects the finest principles of Renaissance and Baroque aesthetics. Its long nave extends the full length of the western wing, with a two-storey gallery that provides elevated viewing and ceremonial space. The six-vaulted stucco ceiling, richly decorated and borne by pillars rising from the galleries, creates an impression of weightless elegance. Grisaille frescoes of Biblical figures, painted in the 1690s, adorn the pillars, while the galleries themselves were enhanced during the reign of Frederick III with heraldic decorations bearing his royal arms. The chapel's proportions and decoration create an atmosphere of solemn grandeur appropriate to its role as a space of royal and divine authority.

A Living Parish Church and Museum Space

Since the time of Christian IV, Frederiksborg Castle Chapel has served as a parish church, a function it continues today. The chapel remains an active place of worship, hosting services, baptisms, confirmations, and weddings, maintaining an unbroken spiritual tradition spanning four centuries. Simultaneously, it functions as part of the Frederiksborg National History Museum, allowing visitors to experience its architectural and artistic significance while respecting its ongoing ecclesiastical role. The King's Oratory, accessible from the chapel, was severely damaged in the 1859 fire but has been carefully recreated to its original appearance, decorated with 23 paintings by artist Carl Bloch depicting scenes from the life of Christ, created between 1865 and 1879.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Old town hall

0.6 km

A dignified brick landmark on Hillerød’s main square, the Old Town Hall anchors the town’s civic heart between cobbled streets, cafés and castle views.

Skänk øl, vin & madbar Hillerød

0.7 km

Experience Danish craft beers, global wines, and tasty tapas at Skänk in Hillerød, a cozy spot with castle views and a welcoming atmosphere on Torvet square.

Hillerød Rectory

0.7 km

Discover the Befrielsessten in Høgsholt, Vejle—a serene memorial park honoring Denmark's journey to freedom amidst lush landscapes.

Hillerød St.

1.0 km

North Zealand's essential transport hub connecting Copenhagen, regional destinations, and Frederiksborg Castle.

Kirppu Hillerød

1.0 km

Discover unique vintage finds and support sustainable shopping at Kirppu Hillerød, Denmark's largest flea market supermarket, offering a treasure trove of pre-loved goods and community spirit.

Kulsvierstenen

6.9 km

A modest forest boulder in Gribskov that marks a dramatic World War II resistance firefight, blending North Zealand’s tranquil woodland with powerful memory.

Country Market

7.8 km

Experience the charm of Fredensborg at Country Market, a vibrant marketplace offering local delicacies, artisan products, and a cozy café atmosphere in the heart of town.

Hørsholm Slotshave

14.2 km

A baroque garden where Scandinavia's lost palace still echoes through ancient linden trees.

Auderødlejren

14.6 km

Once a busy Danish Navy barracks, today a quiet, semi‑abandoned camp on Arrenæs where stark military architecture meets lakeside nature and recent history.

Furesø

17.2 km

Denmark's deepest lake offers pristine waters, historic heritage, and year-round outdoor adventures just 20 km from Copenhagen.

Henriksholm

18.1 km

A quiet Vedbæk hillside where Stone Age burials, villa culture and Cold War command history meet in a leafy coastal neighbourhood north of Copenhagen.

Tisvilde Hegn

18.8 km

Discover Denmark's enchanting Tisvilde Hegn: A coastal forest where history whispers through ancient pines and scenic trails lead to breathtaking Kattegat views.

Danish Museum of Science and Technology

19.0 km

Explore Denmark's technological heritage at this interactive museum, showcasing everything from vintage vehicles to groundbreaking inventions and offering hands-on experiences for all ages.

Heather Hill (Rågelejevej), Vejby

19.7 km

Discover Heather Hill in Vejby: A unique Danish landscape with heather-clad hills, stunning coastal views, and rich history, perfect for hiking and nature exploration.

Vejby Strand

19.8 km

Discover Vejby Strand: A picturesque Danish coastal escape with dramatic cliffs, serene beaches, and a wealth of natural and historical attractions in North Zealand.

Unmissable attractions to see

Frederiksborg Castle

0.0 km

Denmark's Renaissance jewel on three islands, where royal grandeur meets national heritage in gardens of baroque precision and romantic beauty.

The Museum of National History

0.0 km

A grand Renaissance castle on an island lake, housing Denmark’s Museum of National History with 500 years of portraits, power and palace splendor.

Posen

0.3 km

A small, leafy pause between Hillerød’s bustling Slotsgade and the storybook views of Frederiksborg Castle and its lake.

Fisketorvet

0.4 km

Experience the vibrant heart of Hillerød at Fisketorvet, where history, shopping, and culture converge in North Zealand's premier market square.

Batzke's Hill

0.4 km

A gentle grassy rise above Frederiksborg’s gardens, Batzke’s Hill offers quiet views, local park life and a softer, slower perspective on royal Hillerød.

Frederiksborg Castle Gardens

0.5 km

Sweeping Baroque terraces and romantic woodland paths framing a lake island castle, Frederiksborg Castle Gardens blend royal theatre with everyday green escape.

Gavlkunst

0.5 km

A string of vivid murals along Helsingørsgade that turns central Hillerød into a small, free open‑air gallery of local stories and color.

Hillerød City Museum & Graphic Museum

0.5 km

Step behind Frederiksborg Castle into an intimate town museum where historic shops, crafts and letterpress printing bring everyday Hillerød vividly back to life.

Slotsgade

0.6 km

Hillerød’s colourful Slotsgade links castle views, everyday shops and cosy cafés in a compact, walkable street at the heart of Denmark’s classic castle town.

Genforeningssten i Hillerød

0.7 km

Experience intimate encounters with rescued animals in the serene Japanese gardens of Monkey World Hillerød.

Hillerød Church

0.7 km

A light-filled modern parish church in the heart of Hillerød, carrying centuries of local worship history in a calm, contemporary Danish setting.

Elværket Hillerød - Museum Nordsjælland

0.8 km

A beautifully preserved 1909 power station turned museum, where industrial architecture and changing exhibitions illuminate 10,000 years of North Zealand history.

Royal Stage

1.5 km

North Zealand's premier multi-purpose arena hosting concerts, sports, and cultural events for up to 2,000 guests.

Island of imagination

1.8 km

A tiny forest island on Breddam Lake where a king’s romantic retreat has crumbled into suggestive ruins, inviting you to complete the fairy tale with your own imagination.

AdventurePark

2.4 km

80,000 m² of outdoor action in Hillerød’s forests, blending paintball, obstacle courses and group games with relaxed grill areas and flexible event packages.

Lakeside brasserie with castle views, perfect for brunch, lunch, or evening gatherings in central Hillerød.

A local tattoo studio woven into Hillerød’s main pedestrian street, where custom ink sessions sit just steps from cafés, shops and everyday Danish life.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Møllen

0.4 km

A welcoming Danish bodega in Hillerød's heart, where locals gather for drinks, snacks, and authentic social connection.

The Old Irish Pub

0.6 km

Lively Irish-style bar and late-night dance venue on Hillerød’s central square, pouring pints, playing hits and catering to a sociable, mature party crowd.

Tahonga Lounge

0.7 km

Intimate tiki-style lounge bar off Hillerød’s central square, blending cocktails, small-stage events and private parties in a cozy tropical hideaway.

Crane Brothers

0.7 km

Cosy cocktail bar on Hillerød’s main square, blending inventive drinks, warm design and a relaxed, grown-up atmosphere with access to the adjacent Tahonga Lounge.

Jernstangen

1.0 km

Old-school Hillerød pub opposite the station, with billiards, darts, dice games and live music nights in a laid‑back, locals-first atmosphere.

Oddies Beach Bar

16.3 km

Relaxed beach bar on the sand at Rungsted Havn, blending Nordic coastal charm with a hint of tropical island mood and sweeping Øresund sea views.

Kardusen

19.3 km

Casual wine bar in central Helsingør offering relaxed evenings and accessible pricing.

12`er Pubben

21.3 km

Unpretentious neighborhood bodega in Helsingør with billiards, sports on TV and cold beers, offering an authentic slice of Danish local bar life.

Gefion Bodega

21.3 km

Unpretentious neighbourhood bar in Helsingør offering classic Danish bodega atmosphere, simple drinks and a relaxed glimpse into everyday local life.

Head/Foam

22.0 km

Modern neighbourhood bar near Helsingør’s historic centre, pouring craft beer and cocktails from midday to the early hours in a lively, social setting.

Helsingør Musikteater

22.2 km

Historic theatre and bar hosting live concerts, exhibitions, and dinner events in central Elsinore.

Banana joe

22.3 km

Compact late-night bar above Helsingør’s nightlife strip, serving straightforward drinks, warm lighting and a relaxed local vibe long after the streets quieten.

Axelhus Udeservering

22.3 km

Open-air corner bar on Bjergegade, where simple food, cold beer and Axeltorv’s street life come together in the historic heart of Helsingør.

Pitten Sport Bar

22.3 km

Straightforward sports, cold beer and local Helsingør character in a relaxed neighbourhood bar just a short stroll from the harbour and historic centre.

Hold-An

22.4 km

Unfussy beer hall and local bar in central Helsingør, pouring cold brews, simple bites and everyday Danish hygge from late morning to late night.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

Socialz

0.4 km

Intimate cocktail bar and nightclub in the heart of Hillerød, blending shisha lounge vibes, late-night DJ sets and a compact dance floor on lively Slotsgade.

Walther's grillkylling og svuppeklub

18.0 km

Intimate neighborhood nightclub in Helsingør with loud music, simple drinks, and a playful local vibe behind an unassuming facade on Rødegårdsvej.

Den Dansende Viking

19.8 km

High-energy suburban nightclub in Egedal Centret, serving packed dance floors, late-night DJ sets and budget-friendly drinks for party-focused weekends.

Rustik

22.0 km

Helsingør's premier weekend nightclub with craft cocktails and high-energy dancing until dawn.

Retro

22.3 km

High-energy weekend nightclub in central Helsingør, mixing big-room beats, bright lights and a young crowd in what calls itself the largest club north of Copenhagen.

Afrobeat Palace Nightclub

29.8 km

Discover the energetic Afrobeat Palace Nightclub in Copenhagen, where music, dance, and multicultural vibes unite for an unforgettable nightlife experience.

SIGURD CPH

30.2 km

Discover the pulse of Copenhagen's nightlife at SIGURD CPH, where vibrant dancing, fine wines, and pachinko gaming come together for an unforgettable experience.

Falafelberg

31.1 km

Discover the pulsating nightlife of Frederiksberg at Falafelberg, a night club offering delicious falafel and electrifying music for an unforgettable experience.

RUST Natklub

31.6 km

Discover the pulsating heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at RUST Natklub, where eclectic beats and vibrant energy come together for an unforgettable experience.

Temple Bar

31.6 km

Discover the energetic vibe of Temple Bar in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, where great drinks and lively entertainment meet.

Haven - Events

32.2 km

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Haven, Frederiksberg's top night club, where music, dance, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.

Moon Club

32.4 km

Discover the pulsating nightlife of Copenhagen at Moon Club, where electrifying beats and vibrant energy create unforgettable nights.

Culture Box

32.8 km

Discover the heartbeat of Copenhagen's nightlife at Culture Box, where music, art, and dance create an unforgettable experience.

Mirage

32.8 km

Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.

Arch

32.8 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.

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Frederiksborg Castle Chapel

A brief summary to Frederiksborg Castle Chapel

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

S-train from Copenhagen

Car from Copenhagen

Guided tour from Copenhagen

Bicycle from Hillerød town center

Frederiksborg Castle Chapel location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Frederiksborg Castle Chapel

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Frederiksborg Castle Chapel

A Royal Vision in Stone and Gilt

Treasures That Survived the Flames

The Compenius Organ: A Living Legacy

Coronations, Anointments, and Royal Ceremony

Architecture and Artistic Splendor

A Living Parish Church and Museum Space

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Old town hall

Skänk øl, vin & madbar Hillerød

Hillerød Rectory

Hillerød St.

Kirppu Hillerød

Kulsvierstenen

Country Market

Hørsholm Slotshave

Auderødlejren

Furesø

Henriksholm

Tisvilde Hegn

Danish Museum of Science and Technology

Heather Hill (Rågelejevej), Vejby

Vejby Strand

Unmissable attractions to see

Frederiksborg Castle

The Museum of National History

Posen

Fisketorvet

Batzke's Hill

Frederiksborg Castle Gardens

Gavlkunst

Hillerød City Museum & Graphic Museum

Slotsgade

Genforeningssten i Hillerød

Hillerød Church

Elværket Hillerød - Museum Nordsjælland

Royal Stage

Island of imagination

AdventurePark

Essential places to dine

Rabarbergaarden Slottet

Royal Taste

Restaurant Royal Style

Ninos Pizza

Rib House

Jensens Bøfhus

Roberto's 51

Big Mamma Gastronomia

Café Valentin

Gonzales Cantina

Patats Kebab & Grill

Montalbano

Unkai

Piccola Italia Pizzaria 3400

Café KiK

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Red Cross Op Shop

Tingstedet

Boutique Munck

HL Mode Hillerød

Holm Hillerød

Frk. Fie

Flying Tiger Copenhagen

Men's Shop

Idé nyt

Lumi Op Shop