Overview:

Rundetårn (also called the Rundetaarn or the Round Tower) is a 17th-century tower located in central Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark. The tower is a prominent feature of Copenhagen’s skyline, standing over 50 meters tall with a spiral walkway leading up to the top. The tower was first built in 1642, on the orders of King Christian IV, as an astronomical observatory. It was used as such until the early 19th century. Today, it is primarily a popular tourist attraction that offer sweeping views across Copenhagen. The Rundetårn also houses a library, an art gallery, and has hosted concerts and special events. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Denmark
Prominent Features:

1. Dating back to the 17th century, the Round Tower was built by King Christian IV. 2. At 36 meters high, its base is almost 30 meters in diameter and visitors can climb the 200-step spiral staircase to the top for panoramic views of Copenhagen. 3. The tower is famously used as an observatory, which provides visitors with the opportunity to view the night sky through the telescope in the upper chamber of the tower. 4. The main chamber of the tower is filled with interesting artifacts from Christian IV’s reign and was also once used by astronomers Tycho Brahe and Ole Rømer. 5. Built on the remains of the city’s old moat, the Round Tower is surrounded by beautiful green gardens with sculptures and benches. 6. The tower is now a popular attraction and is also the home of the Copenhagen University Library. This national monument of Denmark portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The Round Tower (Rundetårn) in Copenhagen, Denmark, is a 17th-century tower that was built by Christian IV. It is the oldest functioning astronomical observatory in Europe, as well as one of the oldest functioning towers in the world. It has been a major landmark in the center of Copenhagen since its completion in 1642. The Round Tower was designed by the court astronomer Tycho Brahe to provide access to the stars above the foggy skies of Copenhagen. The tower is made up of eight floors, topped by an observation platform, and is topped with a dome-shaped roof. A 159 step spiral ramp winds up the inside of the tower, providing access to the different levels of the tower. Throughout its history, the Round Tower has been used for various purposes. Initially, it was used to observe the stars and planets, but it was also used as an archive for royal records, a bell tower, a prison, and a shelter during air raids during World War II. In the mid-19th century, the tower was opened to the public and now serves as a museum, featuring rare astronomical instruments, a planetarium, and a café. Today the Round Tower continues to be an iconic symbol of Copenhagen and an important tourist attraction. It has inspired many people over the centuries with its spectular views, astronomical discoveries, and its unique design. It also serves as a reminder of Denmark’s rich cultural and historical heritage. You must visit one of these historical places in Denmark on your Denmark tour

Interesting facts:

1. Rundetårn (Round Tower) is the oldest functioning observatory in Europe, built in 1642 by Christian IV. 2. The tower is 35 m in height and has an internal spiral ramp that winds up to the top of the tower. 3. It is Denmark's oldest preserved building, with its conical roof and spire being rebuilt after a fire in 1681. 4. It's possible to climb the 208 steps to the top of Rundetårn, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Copenhagen. 5. In the tower, you can find an astronomy museum which offers an interactive display of the sky, a trove of historical instruments as well as a library. 6. The Round Tower is believed to be haunted by the ghost of Christian IV, who supposedly appears to loyal Danes on the anniversary of his coronation. 7. In the summer of 2014, the town of Copenhagen arranged a new attraction at the Rundetårn - a 360-degree rooftop panorama terrace, allowing for a stunning view of the whole city. Visit one of the famous monuments of Denmark with your friends and family.