“Et retfærdigt styre, der giver borgeren frihed.” This inscription, penned by Thomas Thaarup, graces the Freedom Statue. It stands as a constant reminder of the reforms of 1788. Those reforms led to the abolition of serfdom in Denmark.
The Freedom Statue before you stands tall. It is a 20-meter-high obelisk. It commemorates a pivotal moment in Danish history. It is located near Copenhagen Central Station. The Freedom Statue serves as a potent symbol of liberation.
Nicolai Abildgaard designed the Freedom Statue. Johannes Wiedewelt, Nicolai Dajon, and Andreas Weidenhaupt created its sculptures and reliefs. Crown Prince Frederick VI laid the foundation stone on July 31, 1792. The Freedom Statue was completed in September 1797.
Look closely at the four female figures surrounding the obelisk. They represent core values. Bravery, civic virtue, fidelity, and industrious cultivation of land. These figures embody the ideals that underpin a free society.
Notice the inscriptions. On the east side, it reads, “Kongen kiendte, at Borgerfriehed bestemt ved retfærdig Lov.” This translates to “The king acknowledged that civic freedom is determined by just law.” On the west side, the inscription declares, “Kongen bød Stavnsbaandet skal ophøre, Landboe Lovene gives Orden og Kraft” meaning “The king commanded that serfdom shall cease, the agricultural laws be given order and strength.”
The Freedom Statue’s construction used materials from across the kingdom. The obelisk itself is made of sandstone from Nexø on Bornholm. Its base is crafted from Norwegian marble.
The Freedom Statue has been moved slightly. In 1909-1910, during the construction of the Central Station, it was dismantled. The Freedom Statue was then rebuilt 5.3 meters east of its original location.
The Freedom Statue was renovated. The first renovation took place in 1850-1851. A thorough renovation was completed in 1999. The obelisk, reliefs, and four female statues were replaced with exact copies.
The streets nearby also honor the reformers. Bernstorffsgade, Reventlowsgade, and Colbjørnsensgade bear the names of Andreas Peter Bernstorff, Christian Ditlev Frederik Reventlow, and Christian Colbjørnsen. They were driving forces behind the peasant reforms.
The Freedom Statue is more than just a monument. It is a testament to the enduring pursuit of freedom. It is a reminder of the importance of civic virtue. Take a moment to reflect on the values it represents. Consider the struggles of those who fought for liberation. The Freedom Statue stands as a symbol of hope.