Remember Prinsessegade’s Barracks? This public primary school Christianshavn Skole has a vibrant history. Let’s dive into the past of this educational landmark.
Christianshavn Skole is located in the Christianshavn district of Copenhagen. It serves as a public primary school. However, the building wasn’t always a school.
Originally, the building was a naval hospital called Marinehospitalet. Bernhard Ingemann designed it back in 1915. The Royal Danish Navy used it until 1928. Then, Kopenhagen’s military hospital on Tagensvej replaced it. This also replaced the military hospital in Rigensgade.
From 1928 to 1940, Østifternes Åndssvageanstalt took over the building. This was a psychiatric hospital.
During the Nazi occupation of Denmark on April 9, 1940, the story took a dramatic turn. The Germans confiscated Værløse Airfield. This left the army’s air troops without a home. On October 7, they seized the former naval hospital. It became known as Prinsessegades Barracks.
During this turbulent time, a Danish officer was wounded. This happened when German forces arrested Danish military and police on August 29, 1943. The building was then used as a German military hospital, a lazaretto.
In 1949, Copenhagen Municipality purchased the building. They transformed it into a public primary school. Christianshavn Skole opened its doors in August 1950.
Christianshavns Skole consists of two building complexes. These are called Filialen and Hovedskolen. They are about 200 meters apart on Prinsessegade. In the years 2014-2019, the school went through a major renovation. It expanded from three to four tracks.
After the expansion, the school included a new building. There was also an extension and four existing buildings. Two of these buildings are worthy of preservation. One is even listed. The oldest building dates back to 1758. Philip de Lange originally designed it as a villa.
Today, Christianshavns Skole is more than just a school. It is an urban learning environment. It reflects the historical heritage of the place. Besides the primary school, there is also an integrated after-school program. An evening school is also available for the district’s citizens.
The transformation of Christianshavn Skole connects history and activity. The school provides outdoor teaching spaces. It offers areas for both activity and relaxation.
The renovation of the old hospital building improved the indoor climate. New communal and specialist rooms were added. New open spaces were also created. The history of the site and buildings serve as inspiration. This inspires the school’s new learning spaces.
Christianshavn Skole stands as a testament to transformation. It has evolved from a naval hospital to a psychiatric institution. It became a military barracks and finally a school. The school’s walls hold stories of war, healing, and education. As we stand here, we’re surrounded by layers of history. Each brick whispers tales of the past, shaping the present of Christianshavn Skole.