High above Roskilde the Vandtårnet Toppen stands tall. Its cylindrical form a concrete giant. This isn’t just any water tower. It’s a piece of Roskilde’s history a testament to ingenuity.
Built in 1960 the Vandtårnet Toppen solved a pressing problem. Many homes lacked sufficient water pressure. A previous plan for a smaller water tower had failed. Political disagreements stalled the project for years.
Finally in 1957 the decision was made. A 6000 cubic meter water tower was needed. The location was settled. A swimming pool would be built beneath it. The top would become a restaurant.
A competition determined the restaurant’s name. Toppen meaning ‘the top’ was chosen. The engineering firm Chr Ostenfeld and W Jønsson designed the tower. They cleverly built it. The bottom plate was cast on the ground then raised using jacks. Each section was carefully added.
The tower’s architecture is striking. Eight pillars support a 36-meter diameter water tank. It’s 6 meters high. The water level reached 83 meters. The tower has two separate tanks for repairs. One tank could be emptied without disrupting the water supply.
In 2009 the water tower was decommissioned. It was sold. Restaurant Toppen though has had its ups and downs. It has faced financial and health issues. Despite this the view from the top remains spectacular.
Imagine yourself at the Vandtårnet Toppen. You can see Frederiksværk and even Copenhagen. The tower itself is a unique building. A symbol of Roskilde’s past its problem-solving spirit and its enduring charm. This water tower is more than just a structure. It’s a story.