As I stepped into the vibrant city of Copenhagen, I couldn’t help but feel drawn to its rich history and cultural heritage. One of the most iconic landmarks that caught my attention was the famous Mermaid statue, a testament to the city’s unique blend of modern architecture and traditional Nordic legends. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of the Mermaid, exploring how to reach it, tips for visiting, and uncovering its fascinating history.
Where it’s Located and How to Get There
The Mermaid statue is situated in the north of Copenhagen, near the historic center, along the waterfront area adjacent to the newly built port on Langelinie Street. Visitors can easily access the statue by foot, taking a 20-minute stroll from the Nyvatn Harbour or by bus number 27 until Indiakaj stop and then walking for approximately five minutes more.
Another option is to take the metro lines M3 and M4 until Osterport station, followed by a 10-minute walk to the statue. Alternatively, visitors can take train lines A, B, C, E, or H until Osterport station, also requiring a short 10-minute walk.
Operating Hours and Prices
One of the most intriguing aspects of visiting the Mermaid is that it’s an outdoor attraction with no set operating hours. This means that visitors must be mindful of daylight and darkness hours, especially during autumn and winter months when the sun sets as early as 4-5 pm.
To avoid crowds, I recommend visiting the Mermaid early in the morning or at sunset, when the light is golden and the atmosphere is more serene. Admission to the statue is free, making it an accessible attraction for visitors of all ages.
Guided Tours, Tickets Online, and Tips for Visiting
While there are no guided tours available for the Mermaid statue, visitors can still benefit from some insider tips:
- Arrive early: Plan your visit around 10 am to avoid the crowds of tourists.
- Be patient: Taking photos of the Mermaid without tourists nearby requires patience, especially if you’re traveling with a group or camera equipment.
- Focus on details: Instead of just taking a quick glance, try to catch the human-like emotions and expressions in the statue’s facial features.
Brief Historical Notes, Curiosities, and Practical Information
The Mermaid statue is a work by E. Eriksen, depicting a mermaid made of bronze with an introspective gaze towards the sea. The statue’s design is inspired by the famous fairy tale “The Little Mermaid” by Hans Christian Andersen.
One interesting fact about the Mermaid is that its size can be deceiving – it stands at approximately 1 meter 25 cm tall and weighs around 175 kg. Despite this, the sculpture exudes incredible humanity, which can only be appreciated by those who take the time to truly look at it.
The Kastellet Fortress: A Nearby Attraction
Located near the Mermaid statue is the Kastellet Fortress, a historic area worth visiting. The fortress was built in 1770 and served as a defensive structure for the city. Today, it’s a popular spot for picnics, strolling, and taking in the views of Copenhagen Harbour.
The Mermaid’s Origins: A Story of Inspiration and Artistry
The Mermaid statue was commissioned by Carl Jacobsen, son of Carlsberg beer’s founder, who was deeply moved by the story of “The Little Mermaid.” The work was created by Eriksen himself, inspired by a star of Copenhagen’s theatre for the mermaid’s face.
However, due to an actress’s refusal to pose nude, Eriksen had to draw inspiration from his wife instead. This added layer of meaning to the statue, making it even more captivating.
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Replicas and Exhibitions: A Global Phenomenon
The Mermaid statue has become a global icon, with over 13 replicas located worldwide. In Copenhagen, there are two notable replicas – one at Tivoli Gardens and another at the city’s airport.
In addition to its multiple appearances in exhibitions and displays, the Mermaid has also traveled abroad, including a notable transfer to Shanghai during the Universal Exhibition in 2010.
Conclusion
The Mermaid statue is an enchanting attraction that embodies Copenhagen’s unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. By following these tips and exploring the fascinating history behind this iconic landmark, visitors can unlock the secrets of the Mermaid and create lasting memories of their time in this captivating city.
Here are some FAQs related to the topic:
Q: What is the best time to visit the Mermaid statue?
A: The best time to visit the Mermaid statue depends on your personal preferences. However, visiting early in the morning or at sunset can provide a more serene atmosphere and avoid crowds of tourists.
Q: Is there a guided tour available for the Mermaid statue?
A: There are no guided tours specifically designed for the Mermaid statue. However, visitors can still benefit from some insider tips and practical information to make their visit more enjoyable.
Q: Can I take photos of the Mermaid without tourists nearby?
A: Taking photos of the Mermaid without tourists nearby requires patience, especially if you’re traveling with a group or camera equipment.
Q: What is the history behind the Mermaid statue’s design and inspiration?
A: The Mermaid statue was inspired by the famous fairy tale “The Little Mermaid” by Hans Christian Andersen. The statue’s design is also influenced by E. Eriksen, who drew inspiration from a star of Copenhagen’s theatre for the mermaid’s face.
Q: Are there any replicas or exhibitions featuring the Mermaid statue?
A: Yes, there are over 13 replicas of the Mermaid statue located worldwide. In addition to its multiple appearances in exhibitions and displays, the Mermaid has also traveled abroad, including a notable transfer to Shanghai during the Universal Exhibition in 2010.
Q: Can I visit the Kastellet Fortress near the Mermaid statue?
A: Yes, visitors can explore the historic area of the Kastellet Fortress, which offers stunning views of Copenhagen Harbour and is perfect for picnics or strolling.
Q: What are some tips for visiting the Mermaid statue with children?
A: Visiting the Mermaid statue with children requires patience and planning. Arrive early in the morning or at sunset to avoid crowds, and encourage your child to focus on the details of the statue’s facial features.
Q: Can I take a boat tour near the Mermaid statue?
A: Yes, visitors can take a boat tour along the main canal near the Mermaid statue. This offers a unique perspective on the city’s architecture and history.