The Round Tower

Introduction

The Round Tower (Rundetaarn) is an ancient and unique tower in Copenhagen's old town. As one of the oldest working astronomical observatories in Europe, it is distinguished by its distinctive step-free spiral ramp and the superb view of Copenhagen's old town from the top, making it a landmark of the city. Built in the 17th century by King Christian IV, a Danish monarch with a passion for science and architecture, it originally served as an astronomical observatory for scholars (a working observatory still sits at its top). Its most remarkable feature is the internal ascent: instead of stairs, a wide, gentle spiral ramp winds seven and a half turns up the inside of the tower to the top. The reason for this unusual design is debated (one account says it allowed heavy instruments and books to be hauled up by horse-drawn carriage); legend holds that a king once rode a horse, even a carriage, up the ramp. Today visitors of all ages can stroll easily up the gentle, fun spiral ramp (passing the Library Hall along the way) and, from the top viewing platform, take in the sweeping panorama of the old town's red rooftops, church spires, and cityscape. Walking the spiral ramp to the top is a uniquely charming Copenhagen experience.

✨ Highlights

🛈 Practical Info