The distinctive baroque Nordmandsdalen (the Norwegian Valley) in Fredensborg Palace Gardens was reopened on 9 September 2002 by Queen Margrethe II, following extensive work to recreate the attraction and its 70 sculptures.
The first sod for Nordmandsdalen was turned in Fredensborg Palace Gardens in 1764 in the reign of King Frederik V, and it is believed that the idea originated from the King himself. The valley is a unique blend of sculptural art and horticulture and is typically baroque in its expression and structure.
Unusual Sculptures
Nordmandsdalen is shaped like an amphitheatre with three sharply profiled terraces. On a grass-clad platform in the centre of the valley stands a pillar, the top of which is decorated with a gilded ball. Distributed over the three terraces are 70 sculptures, representing 60 Norwegian and 10 Faroese peasants, fishermen, women and other good people – which is quite remarkable, since it was very unusual to depict ordinary people in those days.
The Recreation
Since the 18th century, Nordmandsdalen has been exposed to the merciless ravages of time, and in 1976 an examination showed that it was high time to consider the future existence of the valley. In 1984 the Palaces and Properties Agency initially decided to resculpt all the figures, and in 2000 the Agency launched an initiative to recreate the entire attraction in its original form.
The original, very worn sculptures are now protected against wind and weather at Thuras Havremagasin in Fredensborg.
Nordmandsdalen is always open to the public.
Last updated:: Monday, February 23, 2009
