Roskilde Palace

Roskilde Cathedral is linked to the Palace to the east by Absalon's Arch, a covered bridge built of limestone in the year 1200 or so. The Palace originally served as the Bishop's seat and later as accommodation for royalty who were passing through or were attending a funeral in the cathedral. In the 18thcentury the present palace was built to the designs of the Danish architect Laurits de Thurah; the building has a handsome courtyard and staircase.

Historical Collection

Five rooms of the palace now house a collection (Palæsamlingerne) which originated from a gift to Roskilde by the Kornerup family, who were important merchants of the 18th and 19th century. The exhibits include furniture, paintings - including portraits of Peter Kornerup and his wife - and works by the architectural artist Joseph Kornerup. Also on view are some 19th century champion rifle-shooting targets.

One room in the palace is used by the Roskilde Art Club for their exhibitions. In summer sculptures are displayed in the palace garden.