Beneath the rustling leaves of ancient trees at Assistens Cemetery, a unique tale unfolds. Assistens Cemetery isn’t just a burial ground. It’s a vibrant park, a place where life and death intertwine. Established in 1760 as “Assistens Kirkegård,” meaning “assisting cemetery,” it was meant to alleviate overcrowding in Copenhagen’s existing cemeteries. Located outside the city walls then, it’s now nestled within the bustling Nørrebro district. Over time, Assistens Cemetery evolved into a green oasis. Grand trees and winding paths create a serene atmosphere. This tranquil space is the final resting place of many notable Danes. Hans Christian Andersen, author of beloved fairy tales like “The Little Mermaid,” rests beneath a simple gravestone. Nearby lies Søren Kierkegaard, the father of existentialism, whose profound writings explored faith and human existence. He even had a public feud with a satirical paper, The Corsair, which published caricatures of him. Niels Bohr, the Nobel laureate who revolutionized atomic theory with his model of the atom, also rests here. A lesser-known fact about Bohr is his love for football. He was a goalkeeper in his youth. Christoffer Wilhelm Eckersberg, the “Father of Danish Painting,” also found his final rest at Assistens. Eckersberg had a unique practice of observing sailors swimming naked at the Copenhagen Naval Station to study the human form. This contributed to the remarkable authenticity in his paintings. Assistens Cemetery is a place of quiet contemplation and vibrant life. Locals picnic, cycle, and enjoy the green space, coexisting respectfully with the solemn atmosphere. It’s a unique blend of life and death, a testament to the Danish perspective on life’s cycle. The cemetery also hosts concerts, art exhibits, and serves as an outdoor classroom. Assistens Cemetery invites you to explore its rich history, wander its peaceful paths, and reflect on the lives that shaped Denmark.
Galleri KANT
Founded in 2009 by Kerry Harm Nielsen and Anna Gram Sørensen Galleri KANT is more than just a gallery. It’s