Frederiksborg Castle, Hillerod, Denmark

While visiting an old friend in Hillerod, Denmark, we could not help but enjoy the small town's pedestrian shopping street and views of Frederiksborg Castle. 

The bicycle leaning against a tree in the photo above hints at what a lovely country Denmark is for cycling as it is quite flat. Many people do not own cars but rely on their bicycles and public transportation.

The castle, which houses Denmark's Museum of National History, can be seen from just about anywhere in Hillerod.

Although I had visited Frederiksborg in 1985 while studying in Denmark, my husband Brian had never had the pleasure. We took a small ferry across Castle Lake to get a watery perspective.

This statue near the ferry dock is of King Frederik II who began building the castle between 1560 and 1620. This king's son Christian IV tore it down and then built the Renaissance castle that has survived to present day.

The lake's glassy surface augment's the castle with its blurry reflection.

The Danes are quite proud of their flag, which flies happily from the ferry boat. On this side of the castle, a lawn lies between the water and Frederiksborg's foundation. 

This side of the castle has no such luxury as a lawn. It appears to rise right out of the lake.

Taking the land approach to visit the grounds and interior, we were impressed with Frederiksborg's archicitecture defined by its beautiful combination of red brick, sandstone and green copper roof.

The castle's front courtyard is completed by this ornate fountain. Baroque gardens also grace the castle grounds.

Close up of the castle's clock tower. Frederiksborg is the first Danish castle to be built inland and away from the coast. It is also the largest Renaissance building in all of Scandinavia.

Much of the history of Denmark, 500 years, is displayed through artwork all over the castle, such as paintings, furniture, and portraits.

The above view caught my eye because you can see where new copper roofing has been added by its contrast to the oxidized green copper roof. Kings of Denmark were anointed in The Castle Chapel pictured below during the absolute monarchy period (1660-1848). The Chapel survived the 1859 fire while other sections of the castle were destroyed. Located north of Copenhagen, Frederiksborg is a Danish national treasure and well worth a visit. We loved it!