- Address: Langelinie, 2100 København Ø, Denmark
- Creation: August 23, 1913
- Material: Bronze
- Height: 125 cm
- Weight: 175 kg
- Author: Edward Eriksen
Denmark is by right almost the most developed country in Europe. It has real treasures of world culture and history. One of such business cards for more than 100 years is the monument to the Little Mermaid in Copenhagen . With firm confidence it can be considered a symbol of Copenhagen and a real highlight of Denmark .
A bit of history
By itself, the monument depicts the heroine of the eponymous fairy tale by G. Kh. Andersen, whose plot is familiar to almost everyone. The statue of the Little Mermaid was established in Copenhagen in 1913. What is characteristic, Carlsen Jacobsen, the founder of Carlsberg, wanted to immortalize one of Andersen's most dramatic characters. Inspired by a ballet based on a fairy tale, he ordered a Danish sculptor Edward Erickson to create a statue of the little mermaid. The model for the naked body was the creator's wife, and the face was sculpted from the ballerina, who performed the main part in the production. In due course it was decided to present a monument to the city. In height, the sculpture of the Little Mermaid in Copenhagen reaches about 1.25 m, and its weight is 175 kg.
The fate of the Little Mermaid in Copenhagen
Despite the mass attraction and admiration of tourists, the sculpture was repeatedly victimized by vandalism. Three times the statue was beheaded, her arm was cut off, dumped from the pedestal, doused with paint. The monument even became several times the center of the protest action, it was clothed in hijab and veil. For some time a policeman was put to the pedestal and additional lighting was added. The possibility of moving the monument further from the coast was also discussed, in order to avoid further damage from the hands of the vandals. In 2010, the sculpture first left its pedestal. The Little Mermaid of Copenhagen as a symbol of Denmark for about half a year represented the country at an exhibition in Shanghai.
Local residents say that the sculpture brings good luck. One of the legends says - if you touch the statue, then you will meet your love. Therefore sometimes it is called a monument of eternal love. In addition, every Dane bears the belief that while the sea beauty sits in its place, peace and peace will reign in the Danish kingdom. And they say about the Little Mermaid: "When you see her - be kinder to her!".
It should be taken into account that a strong wind will not let it come close to the pedestal and stay dry. Therefore, if you want bright and vivid photos, then it's better to visit the highlight of the capital on a clear and fine day. Monument to the Little Mermaid in Denmark as a symbol of Copenhagen for many Danes is a source of inspiration, as evidenced by the large number of local artists drawing along the waterfront. Thousands of tourists from all over the world come to Copenhagen every year to see the monument of the sad Mermaid sitting on a stone. And by touching it, make your own secret desire.
How to get there?
You can get by public transport on suburban trains and metro. Go to Østerport station, from it go to the Langelinie waterfront and follow the signs. If it is somewhat difficult to navigate, the Danes will gladly help and point the right direction. Not far from the waterfront are many hotels and restaurants offering delicious dishes of national Danish cuisine .
| | |
