17th century tower and observatoryRundetaarn, or the round tower, is the oldest functioning observatory in Europe and stars have been watched here since 1642.King Christian IV and astronomer Tycho BraheAt the time when Christian IV built the tower, Denmark was quite famous for its astronomical achievements thanks to the astronomer Tycho Brahe. When he died in 1601, the King wished to continue Brahe's research, and thus the round tower came into being.It is now a while since the scientists left the telescope, but the observatory is still frequently used by amateur astronomers and the many visitors of the tower.The fascinating spiral walkThe observatory is encircled by an outdoor platform from which you have a magnificent view of the old part of Copenhagen. To get there you need to walk up the spiral walk, which is 268,5 meters long at the outer wall and only 85,5 meters long close to the core of the building. This means that you usually walk around 209 meters to get to top although the tower is only 36 meters tall.This wily walk also leads to the library hall, which once housed the entire book collection of the university. Today the hall serves as the framework for changing exhibitions of art, culture, history and science.The entranceThe entry way of the tower is flanked by ornamental writing in latin and the entire entrance area is actually a little bit crooked as it was originally built into the church wall, which was in line with the street. On the top platform several different buildings have been raised through times gone by.
Købmagergade 52A
1150 København
www.rundetaarn.dk
post@rundetaarn.dk
Tel.: +45 3373 0373
Opening hours
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