Copenhagen is a city steeped in culture and history. As the capital of Denmark, it has played a significant role in shaping the country’s cultural identity. From the Viking era to the present day, Copenhagen has been a hub for creativity, innovation, and artistic expression.
One of the most important aspects of Copenhagen’s cultural heritage is its architecture. The city is home to some of Europe’s most stunning buildings, from the colorful facades of Nyhavn to the grandeur of the Amalienborg Palace. The city also has a rich tradition of design and furniture making, which can be seen in the exhibits at the Designmuseum Danmark.
Copenhagen is also a city of art. The National Gallery of Denmark has an extensive collection of Danish and international art, while the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek is home to an impressive collection of sculptures, paintings, and other works of art. The David Collection offers a unique perspective on Islamic art and artifacts, as well as European and Danish art from the 18th century.
Where to stay in Copenhagen
Copenhagen is home to several world-class museums, so choosing a central location to stay can make it easy to visit them. Indre By (Inner City) is the historic heart of Copenhagen and home to many of the city’s most popular museums, including the National Museum of Denmark, the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, and the Thorvaldsens Museum. Staying in Indre By puts you within walking distance of many of the city’s cultural attractions, as well as great restaurants, cafes, and shopping. Some of the hotels recommended here are Ascot Hotel, Scandic Palace .
Vesterbro is a trendy neighborhood and home to several interesting museums, including the Danish Museum of Art & Design, the Copenhagen Zoo, and the Museum of Copenhagen. It’s also known for its vibrant nightlife, great food, and unique shops. We recommend staying in Hotel Tiffany or CPH Hotel
Finally, Christianshavn is a picturesque neighborhood that is home to several interesting museums, including the Danish Architecture Center, the National Museum of Photography, and the Kunsthal Charlottenborg. Some of the best hotels to stay here are: NH Collection Copenhagen
The National Museum of Denmark
The National Museum of Denmark is Denmark’s largest museum of cultural history. The museum was founded in 1807 by the Danish prince Frederik Christian II and was originally located in Christian VII’s Palace in the center of the city.
The museum’s collection was originally focused on Danish history and archaeology, but it has since expanded to include artifacts and exhibits from cultures around the world. Today, the museum’s collection comprises over 2 million objects and artifacts, spanning from the Stone Age to the present day.
Throughout its history, the National Museum of Denmark has undergone several renovations and expansions. In the late 19th century, the museum moved to its current location in the Prince’s Palace, where it remains today. The museum underwent a major renovation in the early 2000s, which expanded the exhibition space and modernized the facilities.
Today, the National Museum of Denmark is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Danish history and culture. The museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from the Viking Age to the modern day.
What to see in The National Museum of Denmark
The Viking Age exhibit is one of the museum’s most popular attractions. It features an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the everyday life of the Vikings, including weapons, jewelry, and household items. The Egyptian exhibit has an impressive collection of Egyptian artifacts, including mummies, sarcophagi, and hieroglyphs. The exhibit offers a unique perspective on the ancient civilization. The Danish Middle Ages exhibit explores Denmark’s medieval period, from the 12th to the 16th century. It includes a collection of artifacts from the period, including weapons, religious objects, and manuscripts.
The Ethnographic exhibit showcases the cultural traditions and artifacts of various cultures from around the world, including Africa, Asia, and the Americas. The Children’s Museum offers interactive exhibits and activities for young visitors to learn about Danish history and culture.
Must-See Exhibits at the National Museum of Denmark
There are many must-see exhibits at the National Museum of Denmark. The Gold Room features the largest collection of prehistoric gold artifacts in Denmark, including objects dating back to the Bronze Age. The Egtved Girl – One of the museum’s most famous exhibits, the Egtved Girl is a Bronze Age girl whose remains were found in a burial mound in 1921. The exhibit features her clothing, jewelry, and other personal items. The Royal Danish Collections features objects and artifacts from the Danish royal family, including the Crown Jewels and other precious objects.
These exhibits are just a small sampling of the many fascinating exhibits on display at the National Museum of Denmark. Visitors can easily spend an entire day exploring the museum’s vast collections and learning about Denmark’s rich cultural heritage.
The Statens Museum for Kunst (National Gallery of Denmark)
The Statens Museum for Kunst, also known as the National Gallery of Denmark, is the largest art museum in Denmark. Located in the center of Copenhagen, the museum is home to an extensive collection of Danish and international art, ranging from the 14th century to the present day.
The museum’s collection includes paintings, sculptures, drawings, and prints from some of the world’s most renowned artists, including Rembrandt, Picasso, Matisse, and Monet, as well as Danish artists such as Vilhelm Hammershøi and P.S. Krøyer. The museum also has an extensive collection of contemporary art, with works by artists such as Olafur Eliasson, Bjørn Nørgaard, and Tal R.
The National Gallery of Denmark is divided into several departments, each with its own focus and collection. The Department of Danish and Nordic Art houses paintings and sculptures by Danish and Nordic artists from the 19th and 20th centuries, including the Golden Age of Danish painting. The Department of European Art features works by artists from across Europe, including Italian Renaissance paintings, Dutch Baroque art, and French Impressionist paintings.
In addition to its permanent collection, the National Gallery of Denmark also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing works by contemporary artists as well as exploring various themes and topics in art history. The museum also offers a range of educational programs and activities for visitors of all ages, including lectures, workshops, and guided tours.
The Collection of the National Gallery of Denmark
The collection of the National Gallery of Denmark, also known as Statens Museum for Kunst, is one of the largest and most comprehensive art collections in Denmark. The museum’s collection includes more than 260,000 works of art, spanning over 700 years of art history from the 14th century to the present day.
The collection of Danish and Nordic art is one of the largest in the world, with more than 40,000 works. It includes paintings, sculptures, and other works of art by famous Danish artists such as Christen Købke, Vilhelm Hammershøi, and P.S. Krøyer, as well as Nordic artists such as Edvard Munch and Carl Larsson.
The European art collection features works from Italy, Spain, France, the Netherlands, and other European countries, dating back to the 14th century. It includes works by famous artists such as Rembrandt, Rubens, and Titian. The museum’s collection of contemporary art features works by Danish and international artists, including Olafur Eliasson, Tal R, and Yoko Ono.
The Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek
The Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek is a museum located in the heart of Copenhagen. It was founded in 1882 by the brewer Carl Jacobsen, who was also an avid art collector. The museum’s collection consists of over 10,000 works of art, including sculpture, painting, and decorative arts from both the ancient world and the 19th century.
The museum’s collection of ancient art is one of the largest in Northern Europe, with works dating back to ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Visitors can see a variety of sculptures, mosaics, and other artifacts from these ancient civilizations. Notable works include the seated statue of Queen Hatshepsut and the mummy of a young girl.
The collection of French Impressionist art includes works by famous artists such as Edgar Degas, Claude Monet, and Auguste Renoir.
The museum’s collection of Danish Golden Age art includes works by artists such as Christen Købke, C.W. Eckersberg and Vilhelm Hammershøi. Additionally, the museum has a large collection of works by the French sculptor Auguste Rodin, including his famous sculpture “The Thinker.”
Last but not least, the museum’s stunning Winter Garden is a popular attraction in its own right. The glass-covered courtyard is filled with tropical plants and features a fountain in the center, creating a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city.Bottom of Form
The Designmuseum Danmark
The Designmuseum Danmark is a museum located in central Copenhagen that houses an extensive collection of Danish and international design objects, including furniture, ceramics, glassware, and textiles from the 20th and 21st centuries. Notable designers include Hans J. Wegner, Arne Jacobsen, and Verner Panton.
The museum also has a collection of international design objects from the 20th and 21st centuries, including pieces by designers such as Charles and Ray Eames, Ettore Sottsass, and Philippe Starck. The collection of clothing and textiles spans from the 18th century to the present day, including pieces by Danish designers such as Marlene Birger and Stine Goya.
Industrial Design area includes everything from kitchen appliances and electronics to bicycles and cars. Notable pieces include the first Bang & Olufsen stereo and a Fiat 500 car. The museum has also a collection of graphic design objects such as posters, advertisements, and packaging from the 20th and 21st centuries. Notable designers include Paul Rand, Saul Bass, and Jan Tschichold. Fot those interested in Danish Silver – there are pieces from the 16th century to the present day. Notable designers include Georg Jensen and Evald Nielsen.
The Best of Danish Design
Danish design is renowned for its simplicity, functionality, and high quality. Furniture design is known for its clean lines, organic forms, and use of natural materials. Some of the most iconic Danish furniture designers include Hans J. Wegner, Arne Jacobsen, and Børge Mogensen. Classic pieces include Wegner’s Wishbone Chair, Jacobsen’s Egg Chair, and Mogensen’s Spanish Chair.
Danish lighting design is known for its elegant simplicity and use of high-quality materials. Designers such as Poul Henningsen, Verner Panton, and Louis Poulsen have created some of the most iconic Danish lighting designs, including the PH Lamp and the Flowerpot Lamp.
Danish tableware design is characterized by its minimalist aesthetic and functional design. Designers such as Arne Jacobsen and Hans Bølling have created iconic pieces such as the AJ Tea Pot and the Duckling and Duckit wooden figures.
The Medicine in Denmark
The history of health and medicine in Denmark spans thousands of years, from the prehistoric era to the present day. Archaeological evidence suggests that prehistoric Danes used a variety of natural remedies and treatments for injuries and illnesses. These included the use of herbs, animal parts, and other natural materials.
During the Viking era, Danish healers were known for their use of herbs and other natural remedies. They were also skilled in the use of surgical instruments, such as scalpels and bone saws. In the Middle Ages, hospitals and medical schools began to appear in Denmark. The first hospital in Copenhagen was founded in the early 15th century, and the University of Copenhagen was established in 1479.
During the Renaissance, Danish physicians began to adopt new scientific approaches to medicine. They also began to focus more on anatomy and the study of the human body. The 19th and 20th centuries saw significant advancements in Danish medicine, including the development of vaccines, antibiotics, and other life-saving treatments. The first hospital to specialize in infectious diseases was also established in Copenhagen during this time.
Today, Denmark has a modern healthcare system that provides universal access to healthcare for all residents. The country is also known for its innovative approaches to healthcare, including the use of telemedicine and other digital health solutions.
The Medical Museion
The Medical Museion is a unique museum in Copenhagen that explores the intersection of medicine, science, and society. The collection includes a variety of historical medical instruments, artifacts, and specimens. These include items such as early surgical instruments, preserved human tissue, and anatomical models. The museum has a variety of exhibits that explore the history of medicine and its impact on society. Some of the exhibits include “Body Worlds,” which explores the human body through plastinated specimens, and “Mind the Gut,” which explores the connection between the gut microbiome and overall health.
The museum hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including lectures, workshops, and special exhibits. These events often explore current topics in medicine and science, such as genetic engineering or the use of artificial intelligence in healthcare. The Medical Museion is also involved in ongoing research related to the history of medicine and science. The museum’s staff includes researchers, curators, and historians who are actively engaged in exploring the intersections of medicine and society.
The David Collection
The David Collection is a museum located in the heart of Copenhagen that houses a wide range of Islamic and European art. The collection was founded by the Danish lawyer, C. L. David, who was a passionate collector of art.
This museum has an extensive collection of Islamic art from around the world, including ceramics, textiles, calligraphy, and metalwork. The collection includes items from as far back as the 7th century, and includes pieces from countries such as Iran, Turkey, and Egypt. The museum’s East Asian art collection comprises over 1,000 objects, including Chinese, Japanese, and Korean ceramics, bronzes, and jade.
In addition to its Islamic collection, the David Collection also features a collection of European art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative art objects. The European collection includes works from the Renaissance through the 19th century, and includes pieces by artists such as Peter Paul Rubens, Rembrandt, and Auguste Rodin.
The David Collection is housed in a beautiful 19th-century mansion that has been renovated to provide a modern and spacious setting for the museum’s exhibits. The building’s architecture and design complement the art on display, creating a unique and memorable experience for visitors.
Other Museums in Copenhagen
Thorvaldsens Museum
Thorvaldsens Museum is a museum located in Copenhagen, Denmark, dedicated to the works of the Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen. The museum was established in 1848 and is housed in a beautiful neoclassical building designed by Michael Gottlieb Bindesbøll.
Thorvaldsen was one of the most important sculptors of the early 19th century, and the museum’s collection includes a large number of his works, including sculptures, reliefs, and sketches. Many of his most famous works, such as the famous statue of Christ and the twelve apostles in the Church of Our Lady in Copenhagen, were made for public and religious buildings.
The museum also houses Thorvaldsen’s personal collection of artwork and artifacts from ancient Greece and Rome, which he used as inspiration for his own work. The collection includes ancient sculptures, vases, and other artifacts.
One of the most impressive features of the museum is the central courtyard, which is surrounded by galleries featuring Thorvaldsen’s sculptures and reliefs. The courtyard is also home to a beautiful fountain and a garden filled with sculptures, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
In addition to its permanent collection, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions and events related to Thorvaldsen’s life and work, as well as other aspects of neoclassical art and culture. Thorvaldsens Museum is an essential stop for art lovers visiting Copenhagen and offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the works of one of Denmark’s most famous sculptors.
The Danish Architecture Centre
The Danish Architecture Centre (DAC) is a cultural institution located in Copenhagen, Denmark that promotes architecture and urban design. The center was founded in 1985 and moved to its current location on the city’s waterfront in 2018.
DAC’s mission is to create awareness and stimulate debate about the importance of architecture and urban design in society. The center offers a range of activities and programs, including exhibitions, lectures, workshops, and guided tours. Its exhibitions explore a wide range of topics related to architecture and urban design, from sustainability and innovation to social inclusion and cultural heritage.
One of the highlights of DAC is its permanent exhibition, “So Danish!,” which explores the evolution of urban spaces in Denmark and the role of architecture in shaping the built environment. The exhibition includes interactive installations and displays that encourage visitors to engage with the urban environment and consider the impact of design on the way we live.
The Workers’ Museum
The Workers’ Museum, located in Copenhagen, Denmark, is a museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Danish labor movement. The museum was established in 1983 and is housed in a former workers’ building, which has been preserved to maintain its original character and function.
The museum’s permanent exhibition, “The Worker’s Life,” explores the lives and struggles of Danish workers from the 1850s to the present day. The exhibition includes a range of artifacts, photographs, and documents that highlight the working and living conditions of workers in various industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, and transportation.
The museum also features a range of interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience different aspects of working-class life, including a reconstruction of a 19th-century tenement apartment and a virtual reality exhibit that takes visitors back in time to the 1930s.
In addition to its permanent exhibition, the Workers’ Museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and events related to labor history and contemporary social issues. The museum offers guided tours, workshops, and educational programs for schools and other groups.
The Museum of Copenhagen
The Museum of Copenhagen, located in the heart of Copenhagen, Denmark, is a museum dedicated to the history and culture of the city. The museum was established in 1891 and is housed in a beautiful historic building that was once the city’s Royal Shooting Gallery. The museum’s permanent exhibition, “Copenhagen Stories,” takes visitors on a journey through the history of the city, from its founding in the Middle Ages to the present day. The exhibition features a range of artifacts, documents, and photographs that illustrate the development of the city and its people over time.
One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of paintings and drawings by the famous Danish artist, Christoffer Wilhelm Eckersberg, who is considered the father of Danish painting. The museum also has a collection of historic costumes and textiles, as well as a range of decorative arts and furniture from the 18th and 19th centuries.
In addition to its permanent exhibition, the Museum of Copenhagen hosts temporary exhibitions and events related to the history and culture of the city. The museum offers guided tours, workshops, and educational programs for schools and other groups.
The Natural History Museum of Denmark
The Natural History Museum of Denmark, located in Copenhagen, is a museum dedicated to the natural history of Denmark and the world. The museum is part of the University of Copenhagen and was established in 2004 through the merger of the Geological Museum and the Zoological Museum. The museum’s collections include a wide range of specimens, including fossils, rocks and minerals, insects, birds, mammals, and marine animals. The collections are used for scientific research and education, and the museum also features exhibitions that showcase the diversity and complexity of the natural world.
One of the museum’s most famous exhibits is the Iguanodon exhibit, which features a life-sized replica of a dinosaur skeleton discovered in 2000 in a quarry in the UK. The exhibit also includes interactive displays that allow visitors to learn about the dinosaur’s behavior and environment. Another highlight of the museum is its collection of butterflies and moths, which includes more than 10,000 specimens from around the world. The museum also has a large collection of marine animals, including whales, dolphins, and seals.
The Natural History Museum of Denmark offers a range of educational programs and events for children and adults, including guided tours, workshops, and lectures. The museum is committed to promoting scientific literacy and understanding of the natural world, and it is a must-visit for anyone interested in the wonders of nature.
The Open Air Museum
The Open Air Museum, also known as the National Museum of Denmark – Open Air Museum, is located just outside Copenhagen in the town of Lyngby. The museum was founded in 1897 and is one of the oldest and largest open-air museums in the world, covering 86 acres of land. The museum features more than 50 historic buildings from different regions of Denmark, including farmhouses, cottages, and workshops. The buildings were moved to the museum from their original locations and have been restored to showcase the daily life and traditions of rural Danes over the past several centuries.
Visitors to the Open Air Museum can explore the interiors of the buildings, which have been furnished with period-appropriate items and artifacts. The museum also has a range of gardens and fields that demonstrate traditional farming techniques and crops. In addition to its historic buildings and gardens, the Open Air Museum hosts a range of events and activities throughout the year, including traditional craft demonstrations, music performances, and seasonal celebrations. The museum is committed to preserving and sharing the cultural heritage of Denmark and is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, and traditional Danish culture.
Tips for Visiting Museums in Copenhagen
- Plan ahead: Before you visit, research the museums you’re interested in and make a plan for your day. Consider the opening hours, location, and any special exhibits or events that might be happening.
- Check for free admission times: Some museums offer free admission during certain times of the day or week. Check the museum’s website or ask at the information desk for details.
- Arrive early: museums can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. Arriving early in the day can help you avoid the crowds and have a more enjoyable experience.
- Take a guided tour: Many museums offer guided tours that can help you get more out of your visit. Check the museum’s website or ask the information desk for tour schedules.
- Respect the exhibits: Remember that these museums are treasures of Danish culture and heritage. Be respectful of the exhibits and follow any rules or guidelines posted in the museum.
- Bring a water bottle and snacks: Many museums don’t have on-site cafes or restaurants, so it’s a good idea to bring your own water bottle and snacks.
- Have an open mind: Don’t be afraid to explore museums that are outside your usual interests. You might be surprised by what you discover and learn.
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