Did a collective ever buy its own squat? Here at BumZen in Copenhagen, that’s exactly what happened. BumZen isn’t just a name. It’s a testament to the radical spirit of Copenhagen. Established in 1986 in the heart of Nørrebro, BumZen began as an act of defiance. A group of squatters occupied two buildings at Baldersgade 20-22, making a statement about housing rights and alternative living. But the story of BumZen takes an unexpected turn. Instead of facing eviction, the collective negotiated and ultimately bought the buildings. This was made possible with financial help from unlikely sources, including musician Kim Larsen’s Sky Blue Foundation and Lise Plum. This transformed BumZen into a legalized symbol of the squatter movement’s ideals. Over the years, BumZen has been a hub for far-left political activity, hosting demonstrations, debates, and community events. It’s also been a lightning rod for controversy. Police raids have uncovered everything from Molotov cocktails to alleged bomb-making materials. The collective has faced accusations of harboring criminals and inciting violence. Despite the clashes and controversies, BumZen continues to stand as a unique space in Copenhagen’s landscape. It’s a living embodiment of the tensions between counter-culture and established norms. A place where radical ideas are debated, where art and activism collide, and where the spirit of rebellion persists. BumZen’s legacy is complex. It raises questions about the boundaries of protest, the role of community, and the power of collective action.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to