Kastellet Fortress
Quick facts: Kastellet is a star-shaped fortress built in the 17th century in Copenhagen, Denmark, still in use today but open to the public.
- Experience a well-preserved historical fortress and see military architecture.
- Stroll along the ramparts for scenic views of the city and harbor.
- Discover the unique red buildings and a historic windmill inside.
The story behind...
Kastellet, “the Citadel,” dates back to 1626 and King Christian IV's plan to fortify Copenhagen. What stands today is mostly the work of Christian V, completed around 1664, with the classic star-shaped fortifications.
Kastellet remains an active military area, so it's not unusual to see soldiers on the grounds. Inside, red-roofed barracks and administrative buildings include a striking commander's house, and a small church that once doubled as a prison.
Windmills on the grounds were strategically placed to keep the fortress supplied with flour even under siege — a clever piece of defensive planning that adds to Kastellet's role in Copenhagen's military history and identity.
