Step back in time as we stand before Blegdamsvejens Fængsel. This is not just any building. It is Denmark’s oldest prison still in operation. Imagine the stories held within these walls.
Blegdamsvejens Fængsel opened its doors on December 18 1848. It replaced Frederiksholms Arresthus. The old prison was deemed outdated.
Michael Gottlieb Bindesbøll designed the new prison. King Christian VIII approved the location. The site was outside Copenhagen’s fortification ring. Frederik VII attended the opening ceremony. Adam Oehlenschläger wrote a cantata for the event.
Originally, Blegdamsvejens Fængsel served Copenhagen County. It housed prisoners from the suburbs. Royal court employees were also held here.
The prison expanded in 1880. Modernizations occurred in 1907 to 1913. Carl Thonning led these updates. Further renovations took place from 1927 to 1928. Emil Jørgensen oversaw this project.
Today, Københavns Fængsler manages Blegdamsvejens Fængsel. It houses male prisoners. The three-story building has space for 91 inmates.
Blegdamsvejens Fængsel stands on Blegdamsvej in Nørrebro. This location is in the heart of Copenhagen.
Inside Blegdamsvejens Fængsel, inmates have access to several facilities. These include a schoolroom, a gym and yard areas. There is also a church hall. Weekly services are held here.
Blegdamsvejens Fængsel offers various activities. These include cell work and general education. Classes cover reading, math, IT, English and social studies. Creative courses are also available.
The prison provides education and career guidance. Inmates can receive AMU instruction. Subjects include food hygiene, English, conflict resolution and IT.
Blegdamsvejens Fængsel also addresses substance abuse. It offers pre-treatment and motivation programs. “Project Over Muren” is also available.
Visiting Blegdamsvejens Fængsel requires planning. Inmates can receive two adult visitors. Alternatively, one adult and two children can visit. Booking visits happens on Mondays and Thursdays. Call 7255 5452 between 12:00 and 15:00. These times will change from August 1 2024.
Remember to bring valid photo identification. Acceptable forms include passports or driver’s licenses. Mobile app driver’s licenses are not valid. Children under 10 can use their health insurance certificate.
Items for inmates must be delivered during visits. Otherwise, use the delivery service at Vestre Fængsel. Photo ID is required for all deliveries.
Despite its age, Blegdamsvejens Fængsel maintains a special atmosphere. It stands amidst shops and cafes in Nørrebro. This creates a unique contrast.
The good atmosphere extends to the neighborhood. However, inmates sometimes shout to those nearby. Efforts are ongoing to manage this issue.
Recent renovations have improved conditions. Walls went from yellow to white. Cells now have screens for toilets. The schoolroom, gym and office received updates. These changes benefit both staff and inmates.
Blegdamsvejens Fængsel faces staffing challenges. Limited personnel affect daily operations. This is especially noticeable during visitations.
And that concludes our visit to Blegdamsvejens Fængsel. A place where history and modern challenges meet. A vital part of Copenhagen’s story.