Unveiled in 1930, the Genforeningsmonumentet stands as a testament to a pivotal moment in Danish history. This monument marks the reunification of Sønderjylland with Denmark in 1920.
The Genforeningsmonumentet graces the main entrance to Fælled Park. It is located at Trianglen in Copenhagen’s Østerbro district. Axel Poulsen created this artwork. He collaborated with architect Holger Jacobsen. Together, they commemorated a nation’s reunion.
Observe the Genforeningsmonumentet’s centerpiece. A bronze sculpture by Axel Poulsen depicts a mother. She holds a baby girl wrapped in a shawl. The mother raises the child to her chest. This symbolizes a new generation embraced by the motherland.
Notice the sandstone plinth beneath the sculpture. The front bears an inscription. It reads: “TIL MINDE OM / SØNDERJYLLANDS / GENFORENING MED / MODERLANDET.” This translates to “To commemorate Sønderjylland’s reunification with the motherland.” The rear side reveals another inscription. It says: “SKÆNKET STADEN / KØBENHAVN / AFCARLSBERGFONDET / 1930.” This means: “Presented to the city of Copenhagen by the Carlsberg Foundation, 1930.”
The bronze sculpture stands 5.5 meters tall. The monument’s total height reaches around 8 meters. The Carlsberg Foundation donated the Genforeningsmonumentet. The City of Copenhagen launched a competition for its design in 1925. One hundred twelve entries were submitted. Axel Poulsen received the commission in 1926. Lauritz Rasmussen’s bronze foundry in Nørrebro cast the sculpture.
Two square gate pillars flank the monument. Each pillar is topped with a bronze seashell. The concave side of each faces upwards. Doric pilasters decorate the front of each pillar. The pillars measure about 475 by 365 by 180 centimeters. The rear sides connect to low ramp-like walls. These walls are made of French travertine. They flank the entrance to the park.
Mayor Peder Jørgen Pedersen spoke at the unveiling ceremony. Anders Bjørn Drachmann also spoke. He was the chairman of the Carlsberg Foundation.
Consider the lighting around the Genforeningsmonumentet. In 2020, the monument was illuminated. The Østerbrogade 70 residents suggested it. They felt the area was dark after a metro station opened. Copenhagen referred them to the Carlsberg Foundation. The foundation financed the lighting. The celebration was modest due to pandemic restrictions.
The Genforeningsmonumentet stands as a reminder. It reminds us of unity and remembrance. It also symbolizes Copenhagen’s commitment to preserving history. As you leave, remember the story of the Genforeningsmonumentet. Remember the mother, the child, and a nation reunited.