Frederick VII

A room that honours a king who shaped Denmark's democracy

Welcome to the Frederik VII Room, a space that tells the story of a king whose reign was characterised by great political changes and personal dramas. Frederik VII, born in 1808, became a central figure in Denmark's transition from absolute monarchy to constitutional monarchy.

The story behind the room

Frederik VII was born on 6 October 1808 as the son of Christian VIII and Queen Charlotte Frederikke. His childhood was characterised by turmoil when his parents' marriage was dissolved in 1810. His education was practically useless and without great results, which left its mark on his upbringing.

As a young man, he married Princess Vilhelmine in 1828, but the marriage was unhappy and was dissolved in 1846. After his father's death in 1848, he ascended the throne as Frederik VII. However, his reign was not only defined by the challenges of his private life, but also by his political actions.

On 20 January 1848, just days after his coronation, Frederik VII abolished absolute power and introduced what would become the Danish Constitution in 1849. This was a landmark event in Danish history and gave Frederik VII great popular support. His decision to appoint Ministry of March and transferring power to the people was a significant step towards democratic rule.

In 1848, he was confronted with the Schleswig Rebellion, which triggered the 1st Schleswig War. After the Battle of Bov in April 1848, where the Danes were victorious, the King travelled to the front to support the army. It was on this trip that he visited Brødremenighedens Hotel and assured them that they could continue to count on his support.

In 1850, a year after his mistress Louise Danner had married him to his left hand, their life together began at Christiansborg, where she became Baroness and later Countess of Samsø. In 1858, the King celebrated his 50th birthday with a lavish party at Brødremenighedens Hotel, accompanied by Countess Danner.

The King returned to Brødremenighedens Hotel in 1863, before his last great journey. On 3 October, shortly before the dramatic event where the November Constitution triggered the war of 1864, the King was celebrated by the farmers of Tyrstrup Herred. His humour and lively spirit lit up this special day, despite the fact that Countess Danner was not popular in the higher circles. A beautiful speech in her honour was given by Peter Skou Bukshave, which pleased the King.

Frederik VII died on 15 November 1863 at Glüksborg after visiting the soldiers at Dannevirke.

About the room

Frederik VII Room is designed to reflect the King's personal and political life. With a regal and historical atmosphere that reflects the important events of his reign, this room will give guests an insight into both his royal duties and the private tragedies he went through.
The tiled stove in the room is a central part of this historical setting. The stove was a common element in many homes at the time and represents the warmth and comfort that was indispensable in the cold Danish winter months of the 19th century. It adds to the atmosphere of the room and makes it possible to understand how Frederick VII and his time could be felt through both interior and function.
The room offers:

• A majestic double bed with 19th century inspired design
• Classic furnishings that reflect the period and the King's taste
• An elegant bathroom with modern comfort
• Large windows framing a view that the King might have admired in his time

Experience Frederik VII Room and get a sense of the time when the King's decisions not only changed Denmark's political landscape, but also shaped his own life.