Gavnø Castle

Næstved, Denmark

The first historical mention of Gavnø is in King Valdemar's census book from 1231 where a 'house on Gavnø' is mentioned. The house was apparently a castle built to defend Denmark's western coasts. In the 15th century, Queen Margaret I opened St Agnes' Priory there, catering for nuns from aristocratic families. The chapel can still be seen in the castle's southern wing although it has since been extended.

In 1737, Count Otto Thott acquired Gavnø. He renovated and substantially extended the castle, creating today's three-winged, yellow-facaded building in the Rococo style where he was able to house his large collections of paintings, manuscripts and books. At his death, his library collection contained over 120,000 volumes, exceeding that of the Danish National Library. The park surrounding the castle is known for its rare trees, rose garden and, above all, its extensive display of bulbs.

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Address

Gavnø 2, Næstved, Denmark
See all sites in Næstved

Details

Founded: 1737
Category: Castles and fortifications in Denmark
Historical period: Absolutism (Denmark)

Rating

4.2/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Parisa Nejati (7 months ago)
It is not the Gavnø where used to be. When you get there, you can find a sign that due to the wheather condition this year tulips are not in good shape and you have already paid 160 kr per person! I was there 2 years ago and it was really nice but this year it is just wasting time and money.
Anna Roitman (2 years ago)
One of the prettiest places in Denmark. I love the tulips festival. Trying local beer is on the plan next time as they got their own breweu
Vijaya Balan (2 years ago)
Bought tickets online to visit during the Tulips festival. Gorgeous flowers in a large park, very picturesque of course! There's a cafe there and it got quite crowded by noon. There's multiple tulip patches and the colours were just so radiant! Recommended to check out
Troels Eskildsen (3 years ago)
It's a nice park to stroll, but the entrance fee is overpriced. Here are some reasons: - Castle is poorly maintained with limited descriptions of what you see, the smell inside is musty and old. - The tamed animals were a shame, there was only one goat - and it wasn't a mountain goat as described on the sign. You can find other places were the entrance fee of 20€ gives you more value for your money.
Jesper Trasborg (3 years ago)
Very nice garden with pleasant casual atmosphere. Choices and freshness of food in cafe could be better. You can bring you own food and drinks though.
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