The Danish people have a strong affection and respect for the royal family, and they see them as an integral part of their national identity and culture. This long-standing monarchy has brought Copenhagen and Denmark some of the most impressive fairytale-like castles and gardens for all guests to enjoy. Many of these should be an integral part of any shore excursion program in Copenhagen and Denmark.
On January 14, 2024, Denmark witnessed a historical event: the abdication of Queen Margrethe II and the accession of King Frederik X. The royal transition was the first of its kind in nearly 900 years. The 83-year-old queen announced her intention to abdicate the throne in her New Year speech on December 31, 2023, saying that she felt it was time to make room for the next generation.
The Celebration of the Accession at Christiansborg Palace
The abdication and accession ceremony took place at Christiansborg Palace, the seat of the Danish parliament. The palace is located in the heart of Copenhagen and is an absolute must-see when you visit Copenhagen. The new king appeared on the palace's balcony, where he was greeted by a massive crowd of cheering people, who had gathered on the streets and squares around the palace. He was accompanied by the prime minister, Mette Frederiksen, who thanked the outgoing queen and praised the new king, before proclaiming: “Long live King Frederik the 10th”. Any tourist visiting Copenhagen on this day could not have missed this celebration.
The Royal Castles of Copenhagen
If you have Copenhagen on your cruise itinerary, your guests will have plenty of opportunities to discover and experience the royal history and heritage of the city. Shore excursions should indeed include visits to Amalienborg Palace, the official residence of the royal family, the Christiansborg Palace, the seat of the Danish parliament, the supreme court, and where the accession took place, and the Rosenborg Castle, a Renaissance-style castle that houses the Royal Collections, which include the crown jewels, the coronation thrones, the royal portraits, and the royal regalia. At Amalienborg, you can also witness the changing of the guard ceremony, which takes place every day at noon, and see the guards march from their barracks at Rosenborg Castle to Amalienborg Palace. All three castles are within a 20-minute walk away from each other and, therefore, also perfect for guests who want to explore on their own.
The Royal Copenhagen Porcelain
No exploration of Danish royalty is complete without a mention of Royal Copenhagen, the renowned porcelain producer that has long been a supplier to the Danish royal court. With a legacy dating back to 1775, Royal Copenhagen's exquisite craftsmanship graces the tables of kings and queens. Visitors can indulge in the luxurious experience of browsing and purchasing Royal Copenhagen pieces at their flagship store, conveniently located in the middle of Strøget, Copenhagen's main shopping street, and a 5-minute walk away from Christiansborg Castle. Guests can admire the exquisite craftsmanship and design of the porcelain and buy souvenirs or gifts for themselves or loved ones.
Don’t just come here, become here
Copenhagen is a city that combines the old and the new, the traditional and the modern, the royal and the democratic. It is a city that offers something for everyone, whether you are looking for culture, history, nature, or entertainment. And it is a city that has just welcomed its new king, who is ready to lead the nation into a new era.
For more royal inspiration read here, or reach out to the CruiseCopenhagen team on their website or LinkedIn. To contact the attractions and destinations mentioned above, click here.
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