Painting of a courtyard scene at Charlottenborg by Christen Købke

Royal Cast Collection

Royal Cast Collection Copenhagen: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction: History and Cultural Significance

Set within the evocative West Indies Warehouse on Copenhagen’s waterfront, the Royal Cast Collection (Den Kongelige Afstøbningssamling) stands as one of Europe’s most comprehensive and atmospheric displays of plaster cast sculptures. Officially founded in 1895, but with origins in the late 18th-century Danish Golden Age, the collection offers a unique window into Western sculptural heritage—spanning ancient Egypt, classical Greece and Rome, and Renaissance Europe. These casts, originally used as teaching tools for the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, now give visitors rare access to the forms and artistry of world masterpieces that have defined artistic traditions for centuries.

The collection’s setting—a neoclassical warehouse dating to Denmark’s colonial era—adds further context, linking the country’s artistic pursuits to its maritime and trade history. Visitors can expect to see faithful casts of icons such as Michelangelo’s David, the Venus de Milo, and the Rosetta Stone, all arranged chronologically across three floors. The venue’s public hours are limited, with access generally available on Sundays or during special events, and often free of charge, making it an accessible yet exclusive destination for culture seekers.

Beyond its remarkable art, the Royal Cast Collection provides insight into the development of Danish art education and the nation’s engagement with European culture. Its integration within the West Indies Warehouse fosters critical reflection on Copenhagen’s place in broader historical narratives.

This guide details everything you need to plan your visit, including opening hours, ticketing, accessibility, travel tips, nearby attractions, and FAQs. For the most current visitor details and special event information, consult the official Statens Museum for Kunst website and associated social media platforms.

Origins and Foundation of the Royal Cast Collection
Development and Expansion
Educational and Artistic Value
Collection Highlights and Scope
Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility
Guided Tours and Special Events
Travel Tips and Getting There
Nearby Attractions
The West Indies Warehouse: Architecture and History
FAQs
Visitor Experience and Practical Tips
Conclusion and Further Resources

Origins and Foundation

The Royal Cast Collection’s roots reach back to the late 18th century, when Denmark’s Royal Academy of Fine Arts began gathering plaster casts as essential teaching aids. These casts enabled students and artists to study the form, anatomy, and proportions of classical masterpieces without leaving Copenhagen (Statens Museum for Kunst). The collection grew through the support of the Danish state and the influence of the neoclassical movement, with casts sourced from major European museums and archaeological sites.

Development and Expansion

Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, the collection expanded rapidly, acquiring pieces from the Louvre, British Museum, Vatican Museums, and other leading institutions (SMK – Royal Cast Collection). By 1900, the assembly had surpassed 2,000 pieces, making it one of the largest in Northern Europe. After being housed in various locations, the collection found a permanent home in 1984 in the historic West Indies Warehouse (Vestindisk Pakhus), a move that provided an atmospheric and spacious setting befitting its stature.

Educational and Artistic Value

The Royal Cast Collection has played a seminal role in Danish art education. Students at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts refined their skills by drawing and sculpting from the casts, learning directly from the great works of antiquity and the Renaissance (Royal Danish Academy). The collection has also inspired generations of Danish artists, including Bertel Thorvaldsen (Thorvaldsens Museum), and remains a valuable resource for scholars and educators.

Collection Highlights and Scope

With approximately 2,000 plaster casts, the collection covers over 4,000 years of sculptural history (SMK – Royal Cast Collection). Key highlights include:

Ancient Egypt: Busts and reliefs such as the Rosetta Stone and Nefertiti.
Classical Greece: The Parthenon marbles, Venus de Milo, Discobolus, and more.
Roman Empire: Busts of emperors, architectural fragments, and Roman copies of Greek originals.
Medieval and Renaissance Europe: Works by Michelangelo, Donatello, and other masters.

The arrangement across three warehouse floors allows visitors to trace sculptural evolution from the ancient world through the Renaissance.

Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Opening Hours

The collection is generally open to the public on Sundays from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Special openings and guided tours are available by appointment or during events.
Always check the official SMK website for current hours and closures.

Tickets and Admission

Admission is typically free, though some guided tours or special events may require advance booking or ticket purchase.
Reservations for group visits and workshops are recommended.

Accessibility

The historic warehouse features multiple floors connected by stairs. The ground floor is wheelchair accessible, but upper levels are not.
Visitors with mobility challenges should contact the museum in advance for assistance (SMK Accessibility).

Photography

Photography is permitted for personal use without flash or tripods.
The display of busts in the windows and the interplay of natural light make for striking images.

Guided Tours and Special Events

Guided tours, often led by expert art historians or archaeologists, provide deep insight into the history, techniques, and context of the collection. Some tours include hands-on workshops in plaster casting. Tours and events are popular and limited in capacity—advance booking is necessary.

Check SMK’s website or Facebook page for schedules and reservations.

Travel Tips and Getting There

Address: Toldbodgade 40, 1253 Copenhagen K, Denmark
Public Transport: Short walk from Kongens Nytorv metro station; several bus lines stop nearby.
By Foot: Near Amalienborg Palace (7 minutes) and the Little Mermaid (12 minutes).
Parking: Limited street parking; public transport is recommended.

Nearby Attractions

Enhance your visit with nearby sites:

Amalienborg Palace: Official residence of the Danish royal family.
Nyhavn: Colorful harbor with historic buildings and dining.
Thorvaldsens Museum: Dedicated to Denmark’s greatest sculptor.
The Little Mermaid: Iconic city landmark.
The Lapidarium of Kings: Sculpture museum in Christian IV’s Brewhouse.

The West Indies Warehouse: Architecture and History

Architectural Context

Built in 1780–1781 by Caspar Frederik Harsdorff in neoclassical style for Denmark’s West Indian trade.
Features robust brickwork, arched windows, and a scenic waterfront location (Kgl Akademi).

Historical Significance

Once stored sugar, rum, and other goods from the Danish West Indies, linking the building to Denmark’s colonial and maritime history.
The “King’s Room” on the upper floor features original 18th-century decor and colonial-themed wallpaper.

Contemporary Use

The warehouse now hosts the Royal Cast Collection and exhibitions on Danish colonial history, encouraging reflection on Denmark’s past.

Visitor Experience and Practical Tips

Atmosphere and Layout

Over 2,000 casts displayed densely in a labyrinthine, atmospheric space.
High ceilings, exposed beams, and shifting daylight enhance the sculptural experience.
Notable: a bronze replica of Michelangelo’s David stands outside the entrance.

Facilities

Basic restrooms and limited cloakroom space.
No café or shop onsite, but many options nearby.

Accessibility Tips

Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers; temperatures can vary inside the warehouse.
Contact the museum for special accommodations if needed.

Booking and Contact

Booking: +45 33748484 or [email protected]
Official info: SMK website
Facebook: Royal Cast Collection Facebook

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How do I book tickets?
A: Contact +45 33748484 or email [email protected]. Group tours and special events require advance booking.

Q: Is the Royal Cast Collection wheelchair accessible?
A: Only the ground floor; upper levels are not accessible. Contact the museum for details.

Q: Are guided tours mandatory?
A: Yes, all visits are guided to ensure context and care for the collection.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Yes, for personal use without flash or tripods.

Q: When is the collection open?
A: Generally on Sundays 11:00–16:00, and for special events or by arrangement. Always confirm on the official website.

Conclusion: Plan Your Visit

The Royal Cast Collection is a hidden jewel in Copenhagen’s cultural landscape—a rare chance to experience the breadth of classical sculpture in a dramatic, historically resonant setting. With limited public hours, free admission, and expert-guided tours, planning ahead is essential. Combine your visit with nearby attractions for a full day of historical exploration.

For updates on hours, tickets, and events, refer to the Statens Museum for Kunst website, Facebook page, or download the Audiala app for enhanced experiences.

Sources

Visiting the Royal Cast Collection in Copenhagen: Hours, Tickets, History, and Tips, 2024, Statens Museum for Kunst (https://www.smk.dk/en/visit-the-museum/royal-cast-collection/)
Royal Cast Collection Copenhagen: Visiting Hours, Tickets, Highlights & Visitor Guide, 2024, Visit Copenhagen (https://www.visitcopenhagen.com/copenhagen/planning/royal-cast-collection-gdk414438)
Visiting the West Indies Warehouse in Copenhagen: Hours, Tickets, History, and Tips, 2024, Kgl Akademi (https://kglakademi.dk/da/project/heart-darkness)
Visiting the Royal Cast Collection in Copenhagen: Hours, Tickets, and Insider Tips, 2024, Statens Museum for Kunst Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/afstobningssamlingen)