Royal Homes

King Frederik and Queen Mary move into a new royal residence: The Massive 100-room palace rooted in tradition


The move coincides with one of the family’s most emotional milestones of the year, following the confirmation of their youngest children.


Crown Princess Mary of Denmark and Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark attend a reception at Buckingham Palace for overseas guests ahead of the Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla on May 5, 2023 in London© Max Mumby/Indigo
MAY 5, 2026 10:05 AM EDT

The House of Glücksburg operates on a timeline dictated by the traditions that define its dynastic continuity. In this context, and during a particularly sensitive time for Queen Mary, life is about to shift once again with a temporary move to another royal residence. The King and Queen of Denmark are beginning a new chapter as they relocate, following a tradition woven with their own personal history.

Queen Mary of Denmark and King Frederik of Denmark attend the gala dinner during the 80th birthday celebrations of King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden at Royal Palace on April 30, 2026 in Stockholm, Sweden.© Patrick van Katwijk
Queen Mary of Denmark and King Frederik of Denmark attend the gala dinner during the 80th birthday celebrations of King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden

The Danish monarch, alongside the rest of the Royal Family, has once again carried out one of the most symbolic gestures of spring. It is a tradition loaded with meaning that evokes some of Frederik and Mary’s most intimate memories. Today marked the King and Queen’s official move to Fredensborg Palace, which will serve as their primary residence for the coming months. 

Official welcome of the King and Queen to Fredensborg Palace© THOMAS TRAASDAHL
Official welcome of the King and Queen to Fredensborg Palace

Upon their arrival, they were greeted with a warm welcome that also highlighted the role of the family’s younger generation: Prince Christian, Princess Isabella, Prince Vincent, and Princess Josephine. “The children also come by from time to time. I don’t know exactly when, but this is also their home, and that brings us great joy,” the King noted.

The start of the summer season at this residence has been shaped not only by the presence of the young royals but also by the memory of one of the most touching moments of recent months: the confirmation of Josephine and Vincent. It was an especially significant ceremony, during which King Felipe VI of Spain served as Vincent’s godfather. “Thank you for the kindness shown regarding the confirmation of the two youngest,” Frederik remarked, acknowledging the immense international interest generated by images of that day, which charmed the public with their warmth and sincerity.

Princess Josephine, Prince Vincent, Crown Prince Christian, King Felipe VI of Spain, Princess Isabella and Queen Mary at the confirmation of Princess Josephine and Prince Vincent at Fredensborg Palace in Fredensborg© NurPhoto
Princess Josephine, Prince Vincent, Crown Prince Christian, King Felipe VI of Spain, Princess Isabella and Queen Mary at the confirmation of Princess Josephine and Prince Vincent at Fredensborg Palace in Fredensborg

This move does more than just underscore current family ties; it emphasizes the deep personal significance this summer palace holds for King Frederik and Queen Mary. The current King and Queen began living in the Chancellery House around the time of their wedding in May 2004. Until 2010, when Frederick VIII’s Palace at Amalienborg was completely renovated, this building served as their primary home during the early years of their marriage. Now, as King and Queen, they are returning to an experience that recalls their origins, though feeling entirely new in light of their roles since ascending the throne in 2024.

Frederik of Denmark with Mary and their daughter Isabella© IDA MARIE ODGAARD
Frederik of Denmark with Mary and their daughter Isabella

Features of the Summer Residence

Fredensborg Palace, also known as the “Palace of Peace,” was built in the 18th century at the request of King Frederik IV of Denmark. Conceived with an elegant Baroque design and classical inspiration, its architecture maintains a clear connection to iconic Italian villas. It is a residence with centuries of history that has become, over time, the Danish Royal Family’s springtime enclave and summer retreat. It was King Christian IX who, in the mid-19th century, established this tradition by making it a permanent summer destination for the royals, staying true to the original vision of its creation.

Fredensborg royal palace © MyLoupe
Fredensborg royal palace

The residence includes more than 100 rooms spread across several floors and is anchored by a massive central dome, which offers views of the stunning gardens surrounding the palace. These gardens are considered the oldest and most extensive in Denmark and are famous for their tree-lined paths arranged in a star pattern. This grand estate will serve as the official home for the Danish monarchs from now until the end of summer.

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