Struensee and Queen Caroline Matilda

King Christian VII’s physician, Johann Struensee, took advantage of the Danish monarch’s mental illness and became the de facto ruler of the country. He not only implemented bold reforms but also began a passionate affair with the young Queen Caroline Matilda. Their relationship and influence caused outrage at court, which culminated in a coup d’état. Struensee was arrested and brutally murdered during a public execution, while the queen was exiled and separated from her children. It was one of the most dramatic stories of love and politics in Scandinavia.

Locations and attractions

• Christiansborg Palace