A royal feeling in a class of its own with a fairytale factor - that's what you get at Glücksburg moated castle. The castle has long been the town's landmark and is considered the cradle of European royalty. Visit the historic walls and be enchanted by the royal charm of the grounds.

History of the castle

Between 1582 and 1587, Duke John the Younger of Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg had the moated castle of Glücksburg built on the site of the former Rude monastery. The monastery also served as a source of building materials, as the granite blocks from the old monastery church were used in the foundations of the castle and the bricks were used for the white plastered brick building. Schloss Glücksburg has been open to the public as a museum since 1925 and is home to magnificent treasures.

Glücksburg Castle owes its name to Duke Johann the Younger's motto "God grant happiness with peace". Above the entrance portal of Glücksburg moated castle you will find this motto together with the coat of arms and the abbreviation: GGGMF.

Guided tour of Glücksburg Castle

Feel transported back to another time: Glücksburg Palace is home to art-historical treasures and a collection of porcelain and silverware. Stroll through the magnificent corridors and salons and admire the paintings of the crowned heads of the European aristocracy, unique tapestries and baroque leather wallpaper.

You can also visit the former prison, the kitchen, the old storerooms at Glücksburg Castle and the chapel, which was extended in 1717 by Duke Philip Ernst and features a pulpit altar typical of northern Germany.

In addition to regular events, exhibitions, concerts and lectures also take place at Glücksburg moated castle. Tickets are available in advance from the Glücksburg Tourist Information Office or directly from Glücksburg Castle.

Regular guided tour "Four centuries of Glücksburg Castle"

Special guided tours 2024

Due to the high demand and popularity of the guided tours, we recommend that you register early.

Conferences & celebrations at Glücksburg Castle

The special atmosphere at Glücksburg Castle is also available for conferences and celebrations. Use the royal halls of the castle for your event, from a glittering wedding reception to an exciting conference including catering, many things are possible. The castle park and courtyard or the orangery are also available. Please enquire directly at Glücksburg Castle!

Luftaufnahme der Halbinsel Holnis

Wildschwein im Wildschweingehege Friedeholz

Blick nach Dänemark vom Kurstrand Sandwig