Gavnø is a small island off the west coast of ZealandinNæstved Municipality, Denmark. Located some 6 km south-west of Næstved, it has an area of 5.6 km2, and, as of 1 January 2010, it has a population of 57.[1][2]
The name comes from Gapnø (Gap Island) as the straight between the island and Zealand was named Karlsgap.
Gavnø is now associated mainly with Gavnø Castle, an impressive Rococo manor house with an attractive park. The park surrounding the estate is known for its rare trees, rose garden and, above all, its extensive display of bulbs.[3]
The first historical mention of Gavnø is in King Valdemar's census book from 1231. The main building was built in 1402-1408, expanded in 1584-1663-1682 and remodeled to the current Rococo manor in 1755-1758. The manor house was apparently built to defend Denmark's western coasts. In the 15th century, Queen Margaret I opened St Agnes' Priory there, catering for nuns from aristocratic families. The chapel can still be seen in the castle's southern wing although it has since been extended.[citation needed]
In 1737, Count Otto Thott (1703–1785) acquired Gavnø. He renovated and substantially extended the manor, creating today's three-winged, yellow-façaded building in the Rococo style where he was able to house his large collections of paintings, manuscripts and books. At his death, his library collection contained over 120,000 volumes, exceeding that of the Danish National Library.
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