Kronborg Slot

Erik of Pomerania built the original version of Kronborg Slot or Kronborg Castle in Helsingr, Denmark, in the 1420s. This massively fortified fortification was known as Krogen or "the Hook." Kronborg Slot was turned into a Renaissance masterpiece by several royal owners, most notably Frederik II. It was adorned with towers, statues, columns, and a towering spire that symbolized royal might.

Kronborg Slot was destroyed by fire in 1629, repaired by Christian IV, and subsequently destroyed by Swedish forces in 1658. It was used as a royal house until roughly 1690, and then as an army barracks in the 18th century. Kronborg Slot is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most famous castles in Northern Europe.

Kronborg Slot is currently open to the public, restored to its original splendour as it would have appeared in the 16th and 17th centuries. Visitors can see the extraordinarily long 16th century Great Hall, as well as a statue of and exhibition about Viking chief Holger Dansk, inside its sumptuous walls. The castle also houses a Maritime Museum, and free guided tours in both Danish and English are given at 11:00am and 3:00pm for the Casemates, and 11:30am and 1:30pm for the Royal Apartments. Actors placed throughout Kronborg Slot occasionally bring Shakespeare's drama to life in the dimly lighted stronghold.