A magnificent representation of fine Baroque architecture is the Clausholm Slot lying in the countryside close to Randers in eastern Jutland. As fascinating as its impressive structure and lavish interiors are its history and the bittersweet stories of its occupants. The stately castle was built in the late 17th century when the Danish Chancellor Count Conrad Reventlow acquired the property. He constructed a two-storey, three-winged building with the first floor devoted entirely to him and the upper floor for royal visitors.
But the castle became more interesting with the count’s youngest daughter, Anna Sophie who had illicit relations with King Frederick IV. While one story claims she was abducted from the castle, another declares that she ran away to be with the king. However, she would not be able to marry the king until 1721 when Queen Louise died and Anna Sophie was finally crowned Queen. When the king died however, she was banished back to Clausholm Castle where she spent her last years in misery.
The castle was renovated in the 18th century and has since then been under the ownership of the Berner-Schilden-Holsten family. The 900-hectare estate includes not only the Baroque building but also the Clausholm park and woods, farm buildings, Mygind woods, Sophienlund, Estrup and Sophie-Amalie farms and Schildenseje.
However, it is still the castle and the extensive park with its moat and cascading Baroque fountains that draw visitors to the area. The Clausholm castle was awarded the Europa Nostra Prize in 1993 for the outstanding restoration work inside and outside the castle area.
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