Store Dyrehave, Royal hunting forest in Hillerød Municipality, Denmark.
Store Dyrehave is a forest of around 14 square kilometers in Hillerød featuring a geometric network of eight roads arranged in a star pattern. The landscape contains beech woods, lakes, ponds, and wetland areas connected by this distinctive road system.
The forest was established in 1680 by King Christian V, who created the distinctive eight-road geometric pattern. This layout served royal hunting activities throughout the following century and remains visible in the landscape today.
The forest reflects how Danish kings shaped the land through hunting practices that connected power and nature management. The geometric road layout visible today still shows the organizational approach of royal hunting culture.
The forest has marked running and cycling trails that make it easy to explore the different areas. Maps are available to help plan your route and navigate the various sections of woodland.
The eight roads meet at a central point called Stjernen, where a stone marked with the king's monogram and compass rose still stands today. This spot served as the heart of the royal hunting grounds and remains a key landmark for visitors to find their way.
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