Rønnebæksholm’s history dates back to the Middle Ages and is first mentioned in written sources in 1321. The narrative about Rønnebæksholm is rooted in local myths, as well as the official history of Denmark. According to legend, the main building’s location is shrouded in mystique, while official sources show that Denmark’s first powder mill was erected on Rønnebæksholm’s grounds in 1513.
The manor’s wealth of stories springs forth from its buildings, gardens, park and archives. Most of these stories are mere side notes to the canonised cultural history of Denmark, yet for this very reason they jog our typical perception of certain historical events and figures.
For example, Rønnebæksholm has strong ties to the women’s rights movement through the lives of figures such as Marie Toft and Mathilde Fibiger, who resided at the manor. The manor’s history also makes unique contributions to our understanding of the emergence of peasant rights, 18th century propagandistic history writing, King Christian II’s utopian projects, and the happiest years of Danish cultural icon N.F.S Grundtvig’s life as he resided at Rønnebæksholm with his wife Marie.
Today at Rønnebæksholm, we draw on the manor’s storied history as a basis for the critical exploration of contemporary society and culture through art exhibitions, cultural events and our range of educational programmes.
Rønnebæksholm is a cultural institution in Næstved Municipality and also operates Storstrøm Art School.
