Gisselfeld, Renaissance castle in Faxe Municipality, Denmark
Gisselfeld is a Renaissance castle built of red brick, distinguished by stepped gables and defensive loopholes, with a prominent tower above the main gate. The building is surrounded by moats on three sides and sits within large forest areas and maintained grounds.
The current structure was built between 1547 and 1575 under High Chancellor Peder Oxe, who incorporated defensive elements during Denmark's civil war period. This construction phase coincided with intense internal political upheaval that directly influenced the castle's architecture.
The grounds feature several garden areas that developed over time, each reflecting different design approaches. Visitors can explore these sections and see how landscape tastes changed across the centuries.
Parts of the estate can be visited through guided tours, and it offers paths through different areas to explore. It helps to wear comfortable shoes since the grounds are extensive with much area to walk through.
The west wing contains a hidden staircase leading to a cellar room where the founder once concealed himself. This escape route tells of a dramatic time in the castle's history and the dangers its builder faced.
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