“Imagine Egon Olsen pacing within these walls hatching yet another meticulously flawed plan.” This is Vridsløselille Prison. It stands as a monument to a bygone era of Danish corrections and cinematic history. Vridsløselille Prison opened in 1859. It was designed with the “Philadelphia System” in mind. This meant complete isolation for inmates. The goal was repentance and reconciliation with God. Prisoners spent all their time in their cells. This included work and free time.
Masks were mandatory outside cells until 1924. This prevented recognition by other inmates. Conversation was strictly forbidden. Even in school and church prisoners sat in separate bays. They could see the teachers and the priest. But they could not see each other. Isolation remained a key principle well into the 20th century at Vridsløselille Prison.
Vridsløselille Prison’s design ensured constant surveillance. Its star shape allowed guards to oversee all cells from a central point. Just ten guards could monitor up to 180 inmates. The cells held only a bible. The bible’s purpose was to encourage introspection and a meeting with God. Inmates wore hoods when leaving their cells. This was enforced even during mandatory church services. Each inmate sat in a separate stall. They could only see the priest. This principle lasted until the mid-1920s. The church became a school in the 1970s.
In 2016 Vridsløselille Prison closed. It was replaced by Storstrøm Prison on Falster. From 2016 to 2018 Vridsløselille Prison served as a departure center. This was for rejected asylum seekers with prison sentences.
Brian Bo Larsen escaped from Vridsløselille Prison. This happened in December 2014. It was his 20th prison escape. He sawed through window bars. Larsen climbed onto the roof using a rope. Then he used another rope to descend outside the prison walls.
Vridsløselille Prison is famous for its role in the Olsen Gang movies. Most films begin and end at the prison’s main entrance. After Ove Sprogøe died a road near the prison was renamed Egon Olsens Vej. This honored his iconic character.
Today Vridsløselille Prison stands as a reminder of the past. It is awaiting transformation into an integrated part of Albertslund. The prison is set to become a vibrant area. It will blend history with modern urban life. Former employees offer tours. These tours explore the prison’s rich history. However they are not suitable for wheelchair users. As you stand here consider the stories held within these walls. They include tales of isolation escape and cinematic brilliance. Vridsløselille Prison is now a canvas. It is ready for a new chapter in its storied existence.