For the Danish royal family, changing residences is more than a formality—it’s part of an established tradition that shapes how monarchs and their entourage organize daily life. Each season brings new routes and moves between palaces, affecting the work of the royal court, planning of official events, and even staff routines. This approach preserves historical customs, strengthens ties with different regions of the country, and demonstrates the monarchy’s openness to society.
In winter, Frederik X and Mary’s main residence is Frederik VIII’s Palace, located within the Amalienborg complex in central Copenhagen. Here, the family’s private moments unfold alongside important state meetings, while the daily changing of the guard draws both tourists and locals. This palace serves not only as a private home but also as a symbol of the monarchy’s stability during the cold season.
Spring and autumn itineraries
With the arrival of spring, the royal family moves to Fredensborg, about thirty kilometers from the capital. However, they choose not the main castle but the Chancellery building, which previously belonged to Queen Ingrid. This place holds many personal memories: the elder children of Frederik X and Mary grew up here, and the residence itself was a wedding gift from Queen Margrethe. For six years, the Chancellery was their main home until the restoration of Frederik VIII’s Palace was completed. In spring and autumn, it is here where family gatherings and informal events are held.
Recently, Frederik X became the owner of Marselisborg Castle in Aarhus, which passed to him after Queen Margrethe abdicated in 2024. Surrounded by gardens, this castle has a long history and is considered the private property of the dynasty. In the future, it will go to the heir to the throne, Christian X. Interestingly, the castle originally belonged to a family of merchants who had moved to Denmark from the Netherlands, highlighting the multinational roots of the Danish aristocracy.
Summer residences and family traditions
In the summer, Federico X and Mary travel to Graasten Castle on the Jutland peninsula, near the German border. This castle was given to the future King Frederik IX as a wedding gift when he married Princess Ingrid of Sweden, and it has become a favorite summer residence for the whole family. Surrounded by English gardens that are open to the public when the monarchs are away, Graasten is known for its Baroque architecture and historic chapel. In 2022, it hosted a major family gathering, once again highlighting the significance of the castle for the dynasty.
In addition to their Danish residences, Federico X and Mary own a chalet in Verbier, Switzerland, valued at 2.3 million euros, which they rented for ten years. Summer trips also include visits to France, where the family estate Château de Cayx is located in the Occitanie region. Acquired by Margrete II and her husband in 1974, the estate is renowned for producing Malbec wines, continuing the tradition established by Federico X’s father.
Historical ties and modern realities
The tradition of rotating residences allows the Danish monarchy to maintain contact with different regions of the country and preserve historical continuity. Each palace and castle is associated with specific events and generations, creating a unique atmosphere within the royal family. This approach sets Danish monarchs apart from other European dynasties, where moves between residences are less common. According to russpain.com, such mobility helps strengthen national unity and sustain interest in the country’s history.
Family traditions and support during challenging periods in the lives of public figures are frequent topics of discussion. For example, the story of Carolina Marín and the role of her family in her life also demonstrates how important the support of loved ones is for successfully overcoming change.
Frederik X has been King of Denmark since 2024, following the abdication of his mother, Queen Margrethe II. His wife, Mary, originally from Australia, has become one of the most prominent figures among European royals thanks to her activism and involvement in charitable projects. The family is raising four children, the eldest of whom, Christian X, is regarded as the heir to the throne. The Danish monarchy is known for its openness and efforts to balance tradition with modern societal demands, reflected both in their choice of residences and the royal family’s way of life.
