Soldiers once found their final rest here. Now we stand at Garnisons Kirkegård. It is a peaceful cemetery in Copenhagen. Garnisons Kirkegård holds stories of war and peace. It also whispers tales of famous Danes.
This cemetery started as Soldaterkirkegården. King Frederick III ordered its creation in 1664. It was meant for soldiers. The location was outside the Eastern City Gate. Holmens Cemetery for naval personnel was nearby. Garnisons Kirkegård officially opened in 1671.
Early on, the grounds were not ideal. Marshy land made burials difficult. Improvements came in 1671 with palisades and ditches. The Garrison Church was built in 1706 at Sankt Annæ Plads. The cemetery got its current name in 1723. Before that, it was simply Soldiers’ Cemetery.
A terrible plague struck Copenhagen in 1711. About 23000 people died. Authorities ordered plague victims to be buried quickly at Garnisons Kirkegård. A Municipal Plague Cemetery was also created next to it. In 1720, Garnisons Kirkegård opened to civilian burials.
The cemetery suffered neglect. It fell into disrepair. A renovation in 1812 attracted more prominent citizens. Today, many old graves are still family-owned. War monuments honor those fallen in the wars of 1848-1850 and 1864.
Garnisons Kirkegård is more than a military burial ground. Many cultural figures rest here. The walkways create a sense of beauty. Some paths are bright. Others are dark and solemn. The cemetery connects visitors to Denmark’s military history.
The chapel was built in 1994. Architect Holger Jensen designed it. Copper covers the exterior. Wood lines the interior. The chapel can hold 40 to 45 people.
Near the chapel, stands a war monument. Behind the chapel, you can find Hein Heinsen’s granite sculpture. It stands in a small pool. It symbolizes the transition from crucifixion to resurrection.
Many notable people are interred here. These include Christian de Meza. He was a commander in the 1864 war. Also interred is Brigadier Percy Hansen. He received the Victoria Cross.
Garnisons Kirkegård is an independent cemetery. It is managed by the parochial church council. The army has the highest authority. Current plans call for the cemetery to remain until 2150. Take a moment to reflect on the lives remembered here.