From monastery to royal palace
Odense Castle is located in the city centre and has shaped its surroundings for more than 500 years. Originally built as a Johannite monastery in the late 13th century, the building changed hands and functions after the Reformation. In 1575, King Frederik II transformed the old monastery into a royal palace.
The present-day complex has undergone several renovations. In the early 18th century, Frederik IV desired a modern residence. Architect Johan Cornelius Krieger designed a new Baroque-style main wing and laid out a symmetrical palace garden in the 1720s – what we now know as the King’s Garden.
The castle was further extended in 1837 when architect Jørgen Hansen Koch added an extra wing, giving the building its present form.
Simple and elegant architecture
Today, Odense Castle consists of a four-winged structure with a southern wing connected to nearby Sankt Hans Church. The building features whitewashed masonry, a red tile roof, and classic cornices that give it a light and harmonious appearance.
The former gateway in the main wing, featuring double wooden doors, reflects the castle’s dual role as both a practical entrance and a symbol of authority. Today, the building houses the City of Odense’s Department of Urban and Cultural Affairs, but its exterior remains a clear historical landmark in modern-day Odense.
A walk in green surroundings
Although the castle itself is not open to visitors, the surrounding area is well worth exploring. The adjacent King’s Garden was originally laid out as a formal Baroque garden but later transformed into a more romantic, landscaped style. You'll find large trees, flowering perennial beds, and leafy paths that invite peace and reflection.
Today, the garden is a tranquil pocket in the middle of the city – an ideal spot for a short stroll, a coffee break on a bench, or a look up at the castle’s elegant facade. And despite being centrally located, the area offers a special sense of calm and presence.
