Christian IV & the Era of Great Power
Christian IV (reigned 1588–1648) is Copenhagen's most beloved king — the builder who transformed the city into a Renaissance metropolis. He built Rosenborg Castle, the Round Tower, the Stock Exchange (Børsen with the dragon-tail spire), Christianshavn, and countless other buildings. His motto: Regna Firmat Pietas (Piety strengthens the realms) — but in truth, he was a king fond of drinking and building, who gave Copenhagen its present-day appearance.
The Wars Against Sweden
The 17th century brought devastating wars against Sweden. In 1658/59, the Swedish King Charles X Gustav marched across the frozen sea (!) to Zealand and besieged Copenhagen. The city held out — barely. But Denmark permanently lost Scania, Halland, and Blekinge (present-day southern Sweden). Copenhagen became a border city on the Öresund, with Sweden directly opposite.
Absolutism (1660–1849)
After the war defeats, Denmark became an absolute monarchy in 1660. The kings initially resided in the Copenhagen Castle (which burned down three times), then in Amalienborg (from 1794). Copenhagen grew, was fortified (Kastellet), and developed into the trade and cultural center of the North.
