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The Round Tower: A Spiraling Ascent Through History

Discover Copenhagen from above at the Round Tower, a 17th-century astronomical observatory with a unique spiral ramp, a historic library hall, and panoramic city views.

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Ascend the Round Tower (Rundetårn), a Copenhagen icon offering a unique blend of history, culture, and panoramic city views. Built in the 17th century by King Christian IV, this former astronomical observatory features a distinctive spiral ramp leading to its summit. Along the way, discover the Library Hall, once home to the University of Copenhagen's book collection and now a venue for exhibitions and events. At the top, enjoy breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Copenhagen's skyline. The Round Tower provides a memorable experience for visitors of all ages, combining architectural marvel with historical significance and stunning urban scenery. Don't miss the chance to explore this remarkable landmark and capture unforgettable memories of Copenhagen.

A brief summary to The Round Tower

Local tips

  • Visit on a clear day for the best panoramic views of Copenhagen from the observation deck.
  • Check the Round Tower's website for information on special events, concerts, and exhibitions in the Library Hall.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the ascent up the spiral ramp is approximately 209 meters long.
  • During the winter season, visit on a Tuesday or Wednesday evening to observe planets through the telescope in the observatory.
  • Consider purchasing the Copenhagen Card for free access to the Round Tower and many other attractions in the city.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Nørreport Station (Metro/S-Train), walk south along Købmagergade for approximately 6 minutes. The Round Tower will be on your left. Look for the distinctive cylindrical brick building. This is the most direct route from a major transport hub. No costs are associated with this option.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines stop near the Round Tower, including 185, 250S, 31, 350S and 5C. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient route from your location. Disembark at a stop along Nørre Voldgade (e.g., Teglgårdstræde) and walk a short distance east along Købmagergade. A single bus fare within Copenhagen typically costs 24 DKK.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Copenhagen Central Station (København H) to the Round Tower takes approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay between 70-85 DKK. Be aware that ride-share availability may vary.

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Discover more about The Round Tower

The Round Tower, or Rundetårn in Danish, stands as a proud testament to Copenhagen's rich history and architectural ingenuity. Constructed in the 17th century during the reign of King Christian IV, one of Denmark's most ambitious rulers, the tower was originally conceived as an astronomical observatory, forming part of the Trinitatis Complex, which also included a church and a library. King Christian IV envisioned Copenhagen as a leading center for science and learning, and the Round Tower was a key element in realizing this vision. Designed by Hans van Steenwinckel the Younger, the tower's construction began in 1637 and was completed in 1642. Its primary purpose was to provide a state-of-the-art observatory for the University of Copenhagen, allowing astronomers to study the stars and make groundbreaking discoveries. The location in the heart of the city was chosen to make it easily accessible to students and scholars. What sets the Round Tower apart is its unique internal structure: a 209-meter-long spiral ramp that winds its way up to the top. This ramp, rather than a traditional staircase, was designed to allow horses and carriages to transport heavy equipment, such as astronomical instruments and books, to the observatory and library. Legend has it that Peter the Great, the Russian Tsar, once rode his horse up the ramp during a visit to Copenhagen. Halfway up the tower, you'll find the Library Hall, a spacious chamber that once housed the University of Copenhagen's extensive book collection. Today, the Library Hall serves as a cultural venue, hosting a variety of exhibitions, concerts, and events. The hall's bright and airy atmosphere provides a perfect setting for experiencing art, music, and history. As you continue your ascent along the spiral ramp, you'll eventually reach the observation deck at the top of the Round Tower. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of Copenhagen's skyline, taking in iconic landmarks such as the Church of Our Saviour, Rosenborg Castle, and the City Hall. On a clear day, you can even see as far as Sweden across the Øresund Strait. The Round Tower has played a significant role in the history of astronomy. Ole Rømer, the Danish astronomer who first calculated the speed of light, conducted his observations from the tower in the late 17th century. The observatory remained in use until 1861 when the University of Copenhagen moved its astronomical activities to a new location. Today, the Round Tower is one of Copenhagen's most popular tourist attractions, drawing visitors from around the world. Its unique architecture, historical significance, and stunning views make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Danish capital. The tower also hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including concerts, exhibitions, and astronomical observations. Visiting the Round Tower is an experience that appeals to all ages. Children are fascinated by the spiral ramp and the stories of horses climbing to the top, while adults appreciate the tower's historical and architectural significance. The views from the top are simply breathtaking, offering a unique perspective on Copenhagen's urban landscape. The Round Tower is more than just a historical monument; it's a living landmark that continues to inspire and delight visitors. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, astronomy, or simply want to enjoy a stunning view, the Round Tower offers something for everyone. A visit to this iconic tower is an essential part of any trip to Copenhagen, providing a memorable and enriching experience that will stay with you long after you've descended its spiral ramp.

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