Kongens Nytorv

King Christian V's flagship project.

As early as 1670, Kongens Nytorv developed into an important traffic junction in the city. This led King Christian V to have the square paved over and it was used, among other things, as a gathering point for the military. Due to its central location, the square basically formed the centre of the city and so building regulations were placed on the land around the square, ensuring that only wealthy citizens could build here. All buildings had to be at least two stories high and have a solid facade. As a result, some of Copenhagen's most beautiful buildings can still be found around the square today. Until today, the Kongens Nytorv is one of the most beautiful and interesting squares of the city. Especially the well-kept green area in the middle of the square, whose centre is decorated by an equestrian statue of King Christian V. The first monument was made in lead by the sculptor Abraham-César Lamoureux in 1687. After the material became more and more damaged, it was replaced by a new casting in bronze in 1946.

Buildings around the "Royal New Market

Today, the square is a traffic junction both above ground and underground, as the metro station Kongens Nytorv is located here. One of the most impressive buildings on the square is Charlottenborg Castle including the Royal Danish Academy of Arts. The castle was built in the 17th century and since 1754 it also accommodates the academy of arts. In front of the castle there is a gorgeous palace in which today, the French embassy has its seat. In addition, the D`Angleterre, built in 1795, is the oldest hotel in the city. At the biggest square of Copenhagen there is also the theatre Det Kongelige that was built in 1749. Behind the theatre is the department store Magasin du Nord. Kongens Nytorv is also home to the popular shopping street Strøget.