Christiansborg Palace

The seat of Danish royal and parliamentary power, discover the palace that is a culmination of 800 years' work

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Standing on the island of Slotsholmen, Christiansborg Palace is quite literally in the heart of Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark.

Surrounded by winding canals, it has become the centre of power for both the royal family and the government.

The Danish parliament, the Danish prime minister and the Supreme Court of Denmark all operate within the palace, making it the only building in the world to contain all three branches of government.

Although the Danish monarchy now live in Amalienborg Palace, less than two kilo metres away, they frequently use the luxurious royal reception rooms at Christiansborg for functions such as state visits, gala dinners and ballroom dances. Exquisitely gilded throughout and adorned with colourful tapestries, the palace lends itself to the glamour that is associated with royal events. Stepping inside, it is possible to imagine all of those that have enjoyed its pleasures throughout its history. The building is the result of 800 years of work, as successive castles and palaces have been destroyed and demolished since the 14th century. Originally in the hands of the Church, it was caught in a conflict between the Church and the crown before the latter seized it in the 15th century. As a result, the palace has a fascinating history and sits on top of the ruins of both Absalon's and Copenhagen Castles.