The Round Tower, Spiral ascent to panoramic city views

Købmagergade 52A, 1150 Copenhagen, Denmark

Awesome ramp leads straight to the top

Introduction

Christian IV built the Round Tower (Rundetårn) between 1637 and 1642. The Round Tower is the first part of the old Trinitatis Church complex in Copenhagen and an important gathering place for scholars in the 17th century, which included an observatory, a student church, and a university library. The Round Tower stands 34.8 meters (114 feet) tall, and the top of the tower provides a view of the ancient streets of Copenhagen's Latin Quarter. Visitors can reach the top platform via a 209-meter (686-foot) long spiral corridor that winds around the hollow Round Tower seven and a half times. The Round Tower houses the oldest working observatory in Europe, equipped with a precision telescope at the top, where visitors can observe the night sky during several months in winter or at certain times in summer. The Round Tower was once the university's library, but it closed in 1861 due to an increasing collection. The library has since reopened and frequently hosts various cultural activities and temporary exhibitions. Additionally, there is a Bell Ringing Loft inside the tower, which displays artifacts and archaeological findings related to the history of the Round Tower, topped with a bright ceiling decorated with the zodiac. Christian IV designed the top pattern on the front of the tower, which features his monogram and the letters RFP, expressing his motto: Regna Firmat Pietas—Piety Strengthens the Kingdom. This design was presented in 1642, symbolizing Christian IV's willingness to be guided by God's wisdom and justice.