Copenhagen, Denmark
From classic to modern: 10 must-see architectural gems in Copenhagen
The most awe-inspiring architecture in Copenhagen
Copenhagen is a city with a rich history and a vibrant contemporary culture, and this is reflected in its diverse and stunning architecture. From classic buildings that have stood the test of time to modern marvels that push the boundaries of design, the Danish capital is home to a wide range of architectural gems that are sure to inspire and awe visitors. Here are 10 of the most awe-inspiring architectural gems in Copenhagen, ranging from classic to modern:
01
The Grundtvig Church
This beautiful and unique church is located in the Bispebjerg neighbourhood of Copenhagen and was designed by the Danish architect Peder Vilhelm Jensen-Klint. Completed in 1940, the church is a notable example of Expressionist architecture and it stands out for its striking white, streamlined design that is inspired by the traditional forms of the Viking ships and stave churches. The church has a very different atmosphere and layout compared to a traditional church, it has no altar, pulpit or any traditional religious symbols, and the main space is a large hall that can accommodate around 1,200 people. The main feature of the interior is the beautiful curved ceiling which is decorated with frescoes by artist Joakim Skovgaard, depicting scenes from the Bible and Norse mythology. The Grundtvig Church is considered one of the most important works of Danish architecture of the 20th century and it offers visitors a unique and awe-inspiring architectural experience.
Grundtvig Church
På Bjerget 14B
Copenhagen
Denmark
Photography courtesy of Grundtvig Church
02
The Marble Church
Also known as Frederik’s Church, this stunning neoclassical church was designed by Nicolai Eigtved and completed in 1894. The church is renowned for its impressive dome which was constructed with a new technique that Eigtved developed, it is made from marble and it is said to be one of the largest domes in northern Europe. The Marble Church is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Copenhagen and offers a sense of grandeur and splendour to visitors.
The Marble Church
Frederiksgade 4
Copenhagen
Denmark
Photography courtesy of The Marble Church
03
The Black Diamond
This modern building is part of the Royal Danish Library and was designed by Danish architects Schmidt Hammer Lassen, and completed in 1999. The building is named the Black Diamond due to its sleek black granite exterior that reflects the water of the harbour. Inside it offers visitors an immersive experience of knowledge and culture with its exhibitions and reading rooms.
The Black Diamond
Søren Kierkegaards Pl. 1
Copenhagen
Denmark
Photography courtesy of The Black Diamond
04
The Round Tower
This iconic tower is a classic example of Baroque architecture, completed in 1642 by the architect Hans van Steenwinckel the Elder. It is one of the oldest observatories in Europe and visitors can climb to the top for breathtaking views of the city and unique architectural features, including the spiral ramp which is the tower’s main feature, it takes visitors to the top without stairs, allowing for a smooth and easy ascent.
The Round Tower
Købmagergade 52A
Copenhagen
Denmark
Photography courtesy of The Round Tower
05
The Royal Danish Opera
This modern building located on the waterfront was designed by Danish architect Henning Larsen and completed in 2005. The opera house is built on an artificial island and offers visitors a unique architectural experience with its sloping roof, which is designed to give the impression of a ship’s hull and its sleek minimalist design. It offers state-of-the-art facilities, including a main stage, a smaller experimental stage, and a concert hall that seats 1,700 people.
The Royal Danish Opera
Kongens Nytorv 9
Copenhagen
Denmark
Photography courtesy of The Royal Danish Opera
06
Amager Bakke
Amager Bakke, also known as the Amager Resource Center, is a modern waste-to-energy power plant located in the Amager neighbourhood of Copenhagen. Designed by the Danish architectural firm Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) in collaboration with German engineering company Gottlieb Paludan Architects, the plant was completed in 2017. The building features a ski slope, hiking trails and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city, which has earned it the nickname of the “Copenhill”. It is a true architectural marvel and an example of sustainable design, as it’s able to convert waste into electricity and district heating, it also features a number of environmental technologies such as advanced air-cleaning systems and energy-efficient solutions. The building is designed to be very inviting, it has a large central courtyard that serves as a communal space and it’s a popular spot for visitors to relax, the building’s sleek, modern design is an interesting contrast with the industrial function of the plant.
Amager Bakke
Vindmøllevej 6
Copenhagen
Denmark
Photography courtesy of Amager Bakke
07
Amalienborg Palace
Also known as the Royal Palace, this grand neoclassical palace is the official residence of the Danish monarchy and was built in the 18th century by architect Nicolai Eigtved. The palace complex consists of four identical palaces that surround an octagonal courtyard, each palace is the residence of one of the four members of the Royal Family. The palace is adorned with ornate details and grand columns, and sits atop a hill overlooking the city, offering visitors a grand tour of a royal residence from the 18th century.
Amalienborg Palace
Amalienborg Slotsplads 5
Copenhagen
Denmark
Photography courtesy of Amalienborg Palace
08
The Royal Danish Playhouse
Also known as the Amalienborg Palace, this grand neoclassical palace is the official residence of the Danish monarchy and was built in the 18th century by architect Nicolai Eigtved. The palace complex consists of four identical palaces that surround an octagonal courtyard, each palace is the residence of one of the four members of the Royal Family. The palace is adorned with ornate details and grand columns, and sits atop a hill overlooking the city, offering visitors a grand tour of a royal residence from the 18th century.
The Royal Danish Playhouse
Sankt Annæ Pl. 36
Copenhagen
Denmark
Photography courtesy of The Royal Danish Playhouse
09
Den Blå Planet National Aquarium of Denmark
Also known as the Amalienborg Palace, this grand neoclassical palace is the official residence of the Danish monarchy and was built in the 18th century by architect Nicolai Eigtved. The palace complex consists of four identical palaces that surround an octagonal courtyard, each palace is the residence of one of the four members of the Royal Family. The palace is adorned with ornate details and grand columns, and sits atop a hill overlooking the city, offering visitors a grand tour of a royal residence from the 18th century.
Den Blå Planet National Aquarium of Denmark
Jacob Fortlingsvej 1
Kastrup
Denmark
Photography courtesy of Den Blå Planet National Aquarium of Denmark
10
Blox
Blox is a multifunctional building in Copenhagen that contains exhibition spaces, offices and co-working spaces, a cafe, a bookstore, a fitness centre, a restaurant, twenty-two apartments, and an underground automated public carpark. It was designed by OMA and completed in 2018. Located on the Old Brewery site, Blox straddles a main ring road and connects the parliament district with the harbourfront, bringing culture to the waterfront. Its square volume creates a sheltered public city square and a built front for the existing library square. The building’s exterior is marked by a stacking of geometric forms in different arrangements, and it is intended to be a meeting place between the city and the harbour. Overall, visiting Blox is like stepping into a futuristic, urban hub of activity.
Blox
Bryghusgade 10
Copenhagen
Denmark
Photography courtesy of Blox
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