Frederick’s Church, known as the Marble Church, is a church with a distinct history.
History
During the 17th and 18th centuries, Copenhagen outgrew its medieval boundaries and the city expanded further to the north. Plans for further urban development required the center-point uniting the districts, which would be a church built in honor of the royal family’s 300 years reign.
In 1749 King Frederik laid the foundation stone himself amid a great ceremony. Five years later after the death of the architect, the plans for the church underwent considerable change. Originally, the construction was to be done in Norwegian marble. However, it was so costly that the Prime Minister ordered the project to be halted. Two years later, the prime minister was executed and after this time various attempts were made to recommence the building, none of them successful.
Thus for one century, the church square contained nothing but rather picturesque ruins. Several attempts were made to change the plan for the use of this church – a concert hall, a monument to the constitution, a museum and – believe it or not – a gas tank!
It was thanks to Mr. Tietgen, a locally famous Danish industrialist, who stumped up the necessary cash and hired another architect that the church was finally completed . The Marble Church that took 145 years to finish was finally consecrated on August 19, 1894.
Interesting facts
Although the church is built mainly of Norwegian marble, the upper parts are constructed from a number of materials, including Danish Faxe marble.
The circular nave is app. 46 meters high (app. 150 feet) and 12 pillars carry the dome which has a diameter of 31 meters (app. 100 feet). This places it among the largest of its kind in Europe. For a small fee, you can climb up to the observation deck of the dome.
Other notable details are: the German woodcarving in the front of the chapel, the German ivory cross in the choir, and the commemorative relief of Mr. Tietgen and his wife.
Frederick’s Church design was inspired by St Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
The church is surrounded by many statues. Those at the street level depict a number of well-known figures from the Danish church. The statues on the roof terrace are important figures from church history in general, from Moses to Martin Luther.
The function of the Marble Church is that of a regular parish church and it is part of the Danish State Church, namely an Evangelical-Lutheran church. Although its official name is the Frederik’s Church, among Copenhageners it always bears the name connected with its most prominent feature: the Marble Church.
Helpful information
Entrance to the church is free.
Visits to the dome will take place only on saturdays and sundays at 13:00 (1:00 pm), and every day at 13.00 starting June 1st. More information on the official website
You can also enjoy the view of Copenhagen’s iconic Marble church from the Babette Guldsmeden hotel’s rooftop.
Every day around 12.15pm, you can spot the royal guard marching from the royal palace towards the church.
