Wondering what stories these walls could tell? This is the Embassy of Sweden in Copenhagen. It stands as Sweden’s diplomatic mission in Denmark. The embassy represents Sweden and the Swedish government. It also promotes Sweden’s interests in Denmark.
Formal diplomatic relations began long ago. King Christian IV appointed Peder Galt as his envoy. Galt presented credentials to King Gustav II Adolph in Stockholm on April 8 1622.
Let’s talk about the Embassy of Sweden’s locations over time. From at least 1914 to 1918 the Swedish legation was at Stavangergade 6. This was in Indre By. The legation moved to Kalvebod Brygge 4 in Vesterbro from 1919 to 1921. In 1921, it relocated to Sankt Annæ Plads 15. The ambassador’s residence has been there ever since. The chancery was also there between 1921 and 2018. Then, in 2018, the chancery moved to Amaliegade 5A around the corner.
During World War II, there was a dramatic event. On the night of June 18 1944 a bombing occurred near the Swedish legation. This was part of Schalburgtage. The Domus Medica hotel at Amaliegade 5 was the target.
In September 1947, the Swedish legation became an embassy. Envoy Gustaf von Dardel became ambassador to the Danish court.
Who works at the Embassy of Sweden? In 2022, the staff included an Ambassador. They represent Sweden and oversee operations. A Minister Counsellor assists with diplomatic functions and policy. A Counsellor focuses on diplomatic and consular work. The Social Secretary and Consular Officer manages social services. The Communications Manager handles public relations. A Desk Officer manages administrative tasks. Finally, an Accountant handles financial management. A Driver and Caretaker provide transportation and maintenance.
The Embassy of Sweden has important tasks. It represents Sweden and its government. It promotes Swedish interests in Denmark. Sweden also has honorary consulates in Denmark. There are seven of them. Two honorary consulates general are in the Faroe Islands and Greenland.
The chancery at Amaliegade 5A opened on September 18 2018. It had been at Sankt Annæ Plads 15B previously.
The Swedish ambassador’s residence is in a corner house. It is between Sankt Annæ Plads 15A and Amaliegade. This is in Frederiksstaden. Nicolai Eigtved designed it for timber merchant Johan Jegind in 1750. Count Conrad Danneskiold-Laurvig owned the house in 1755. He was a relative of King Frederick III. Count Otto Manderup Rantzau was a later owner. The chancery building at Sankt Annæ Plads 15B was built in 1853.
Sankt Annæ Plads was once a narrow street by a canal. The house was sold in 1755 to a royal relative. Originally, the residence had two floors and a mansard roof. In the 1850s, a floor and mezzanine were added. The canal was filled. The street became an esplanade.
The Swedish state bought the property on September 15 1921. They purchased it from Mrs. Anna D Nørgaard. It was renovated for the Swedish ambassador. Baron Joachim Beck-Friis, Stina Beck-Friis, and Torben Grut helped with the renovation. Major foundation work was done in 1941–1942 during World War II. Gustaf von Dardel recalled moving rooms during repairs. An elevator was installed.
From the 1940s to the 1970s, Flemming Grut oversaw repairs. In the 1950s, there was a major renovation. Newspapers praised the modern decor and art. The exterior brick was exposed. It was later plastered white again in the 1980s.
In 1951-1953, the chancery was refurbished. It got its own entrance. In 1962, an elevator was added. The residence was refurbished in the late 1960s. In the 1980s, the chancery was rebuilt. It gained a waiting hall and reception. Offices became residences. In 2001, windows and facades were renovated. In 2009, an accessible entrance was added. In 2010, the building’s facade was renovated.
Inside, the residence features Swedish design. There is a walnut dining table from Klaesson’s Furniture. Carl Malmsten designed the dining chairs. Serving tables are from Svenskt Tenn. The grand piano is by Malmsjö. The yellow carpet “Magdalena” is from Märta Måås-Fjetterström’s studio. A couch is from Svenskt Tenn. The art represents Swedish artists with Danish connections. Karl Isakson lived most of his life in Denmark.
The Embassy of Sweden in Copenhagen continues to serve. It strengthens ties between Sweden and Denmark. It promotes Swedish culture and interests. It provides essential services to Swedish citizens abroad.