Imagine standing where steam ferries once docked. This is Ofelia Plads, a public square with a story beneath its surface.
Ofelia Plads is located on the Kvæsthus Pier. It sits next to the Royal Danish Playhouse on Copenhagen’s harborfront. The pier got its name from Kvæsthuset. This was a naval hospital here from 1686. Later, it became a poorhouse and then storage. The pier became a hub for steam ferries connecting Copenhagen to other Danish seaports.
In 1866, Det Forenede Dampskibs-Selskab was established. It was based in the old naval hospital from 1872. Ferries departed from this pier to places like Aarhus and Aalborg daily. They also went to smaller towns one to three times a week. The pier extended to its current length between 1877 and 1878.
After World War II, domestic ferry routes declined. The Oslo Ferries replaced them in 1974. Then the Bornholm Ferries followed a few years later. The Oslo Ferries moved in the 2000s. The Bornholm Ferries relocated to Køge.
The area transformed when the Royal Danish Playhouse opened in 2008. In 2010, the Copenhagen City Council approved the Kvæsthus Project. The pier became Ofelia Beach temporarily. Ofelia Plads and its underground car park opened on June 29, 2016.
Today, Ofelia Plads stretches the pier’s full length. Dark, grooved concrete squares step down to the water. The space is about 450 meters long. It covers 1,100 square meters.
Pavilions dot the square. They house the car park entrance, a café, toilets, and harbor tour ticket sales. There is also a fly tower for outdoor performances. The square can host big screens and temporary covers. It also has equipment for street and beach sports. Stairs and jetties allow easy water access.
Beneath Ofelia Plads lies a large car park. It spans three floors and covers 17,800 square meters. It accommodates 500 cars. A grand atrium brings daylight to all levels. Jeudan operates the car park. They donate money per parked car to cultural activities.
Ofelia Plads hosts various cultural events. These include opera, ballet, concerts, and children’s story time. The Royal Danish Theatre curates these events. In winter, the dock transforms into an ice-skating rink.
Standing here, you are surrounded by water on all sides. You can see Amalienborg Palace, the Copenhagen Opera House, and the Royal Danish Playhouse. Ofelia Plads offers a unique space in the capital. The sky and sea create spectacular reflections.
Ofelia Plads is more than just a square. It is a cultural hub. It is a place where history meets modern life, where you can enjoy art, events, or simply the stunning views. Remember this spot. It’s a place where the city meets the sea and culture thrives.