Copenhagen – capital of Denmark. It has been around as a ‘Havn’ from around AD1000 initially prospering from the shoals of herring in its waters. It certainly has had its fair share of ‘moments in history’ – civil war, losing territories to Sweden, The Great Fire of 1728, battles with the British navy, being occupied by the Nazis . . . all contributing to its charm, culture and a great place to explore. However, please note . . . the famous ‘little mermaid’ is probably one of the most underwhelming; a place where hoards of people turn up to this small landmark (a gift to the city by brewery magnate Carl Jacobsen) take a picture then leave.
We took a little longer . . . braving the cold (carting tripod/camera equipment to the spot) waiting for the right light and for a break in the coaches of tourists before nightfall. Not quite as good as our mentor’s (Ion Paciu) but happy we gave it a go.
Nyhavn
Trudging back to our hotel (71 Nyhavn – described on its website as part of the preserved warehouses with an “oasis of calm and Scandinavian elegance”), we caught sight of Amalienborg Palace glowing in soft light.
The four Rococo buildings (built in 1750s) enclosing the octagonal square were home to four noble families until the royal palace burnt down and, so the story goes, Christian VII bought them. (I wonder, did they have any choice?!) What amazed us – two British people used to the high fences/walls/heavy security of visiting such places as Buckingham Palace – was the freedom in which we could wander in off the street, set up the tripod etc, move around to get the best angles (nice one of Fredrick’s Church in the background) and . . . no tourists.
One of our recommendations in a new city is a go on a walking tour. Not only does it orientate and gives a snapshot of the ambience but highlights ‘must go’ places . . . Tivoli Gardens. Having experienced the queues at Disney (both America and Paris), we thought we would be a bit sneaky . . . afternoon tea at the Nimb Hotel . . . then use this as a doorway into the ‘amusement park’. It is said that the ‘atmosphere is magical enough to merit a visit’ to the landscaped gardens, excellent rides and upmarket entertainment (DK eyewitness guidebook 2023). In October, there were pumpkins, ghosts, strange ‘happenings’, market stalls full of goodies and dark evenings where the light shows dazzle young and old alike.
Back at the Nyhaven harbour, we took one last picture – a modern building in Christianshavn – looking like a dolls house full of interesting ‘stories’ – an inspiration to the next budding Hans Christian Anderson.
Stunning collection of images! Well done guys!