Aalborghus

In the heart of Aalborg, Denmark, lies a historic gem that has withstood the test of time - the Aalborghus Castle. This remarkable four-winged structure, nestled behind protective earthworks near Aalborg's vibrant waterfront, is Denmark's only preserved accounting castle, a testament to its unique role in the nation's history.

The Origins of Aalborghus

The story of Aalborghus begins in the early 14th century when the first mention of a castle in Aalborg dates back to 1340. This original fortress, established around 1335, was situated south of the mill at Østerå. It became royal property during the late 1300s under Queen Margrethe's possession, remaining so thereafter. Aalborghus witnessed significant historical events, including the birth of King Hans in 1455 and his death 58 years later following a fall from his horse.

However, the castle's fate took a tumultuous turn during the Count’s Feud in 1534. Skipper Clement captured the castle on September 14, sending the then-lensman Peder Lykke fleeing. Yet, Clement's victory was short-lived as royal troops led by Johan Rantzau recaptured the castle just three months later. The castle, already showing signs of wear and tear, suffered further damage during these conflicts. By 1530, King Frederik I had considered repurposing the city's Franciscan monastery as a royal residence, but it was his son, Christian III, who ultimately decided to rebuild Aalborghus.

The New Aalborghus

Christian III's vision was to establish a fortress in North Jutland to deter future uprisings among citizens and farmers. He chose a site closer to the harbor and entrusted the project to lensman Axel Juul of Villestrup. Construction began in 1539, but the swampy terrain required extensive groundwork, including the use of thousands of wooden piles. Gradually, essential structures such as a brick kiln, a brick barn, a residential house, and a storage barn emerged. By 1543, earthworks were underway to create the castle’s protective ramparts.

In 1547, Axel Juul summoned the king's master builder, Martin Bussert, who likely oversaw the construction of the new Aalborghus Castle. Skilled craftsmen from various Jutland towns contributed to the project. The new castle featured a three-winged building to the west, south, and east, with a robust barrier wall to the north, housing the entrance gate. Earthworks enveloped the entire complex, with only one floor visible from the outside. The outer walls, approximately one meter thick, were designed to withstand contemporary cannon fire. The inner walls facing the courtyard, however, were constructed using half-timbering, and the castle was further protected by moats beyond the ramparts.

Despite these fortifications, the castle quickly proved inadequate as a military stronghold. In 1555, royal councilors Otte Krumpen and Holger Ottesen Rosenkrantz inspected the castle and concluded that it was unsuitable as a fortress due to the inability to supply clean drinking water during a siege. Consequently, in 1557, it was decided to cease further investments in the castle's fortifications.

Aalborghus as an Accounting Castle

With its military role diminished, Aalborghus transitioned into an administrative center for the lensman. It became the residence of the lensman and a storage site for the vast quantities of goods received by the crown from North Jutland and the areas around the western Limfjord. This new function prompted early modifications and expansions of the complex. Between 1568 and 1572, larger storage buildings were constructed on the western rampart. However, structural issues led to the demolition of the above-ground sections in 1625, although the cellars remain preserved within the western rampart.

In 1579, lensman Axel Viffert built a new residence for himself, demolishing the southern wing in the process. Before 1631, the southern wing was further expanded with a 20-bay long house containing utility rooms. By 1750, a two-story half-timbered storage building stood in its place. The current half-timbered building on the southern wing's site was constructed in 1808-09 and has since undergone significant restoration following a bombing during the occupation. Today, this building serves as office space.

Aalborghus Today

Today, the eastern wing of Aalborghus dates back to the original castle from the 1550s, while the northern wing was added in the 1630s. The southern wing, as mentioned, features a half-timbered building from 1808-09. Between 1952 and 1964, the old grain lofts in the northern wing were extensively renovated under the supervision of royal building inspector Leopold Teschl, transforming them into offices and a beautiful county council chamber. The castle continues to serve its original function as the seat of the state's local representative, now housing the State Administration of North Jutland - Denmark's only preserved accounting castle.

Visitors can explore the castle's dungeon, which is no longer in use, during daylight hours. Aalborg Municipality is currently in dialogue with the Realdania foundation and the Agency for Palaces and Cultural Properties to develop the castle with two new extensions, promising an exciting future for this historic landmark.