Driving through Bagsværd near Copenhagen? Then, prepare to be amazed by the Haaning Collection. This isn’t just another car museum. It’s a family’s passion project turned into a stunning showcase of automotive history.
The Haaning Collection began with Erik Haaning. Erik spent his life collecting cars from different eras. His sons, Nicholas and Michael Haaning, wanted to share this collection with everyone. Thus, the Haaning Collection was born.
The museum boasts over 80 cars and motorcycles. They are displayed in an exciting way. This appeals to more than just car enthusiasts. The Haaning Collection tells the 135-year story of motor vehicles. It is divided into five eras. You will see the evolution from 1886 to today.
Imagine gleaming chrome and polished wood. Spotlights shine on each vehicle. You will find a Volkswagen, a Lamborghini, and even a Citroën 2CV. An orange Lotus adds a splash of color. The variety is as impressive as the condition of the cars.
The Haaning family spent years planning the museum. They worked hard to create Denmark’s newest automotive gem. The museum opened on August 19. It is housed in a converted factory in Bagsværd. The space covers 3,500 square meters.
Erik Haaning began collecting cars and motorcycles around 1960. Over the years, his collection grew to about 130 vehicles. They were stored in various locations around Zealand. About 15 years ago, Erik gathered them in an old industrial building. This became the Vestsjællands Bilmuseum in Høng.
However, the location was outdated. Erik’s sons, Michael and Nicholas, took the lead. About five years ago, the family began planning a move. They wanted a location closer to Copenhagen. This offered a larger customer base and a chance to update the museum’s concept.
The Haaning Collection is now an elegant museum. Interior designer Helle Flou drew inspiration from the 1950s and 1960s. The design evokes the style of the TV series “Mad Men”. The exhibition is divided into five “time zones”. Each zone showcases cars and objects from that era.
The museum focuses on everyday cars from the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s. Many visitors remember these cars. They hold a special place in their hearts. The Haaning family has also added “party cars” to the collection. These include two rare Lamborghinis.
But it’s not just cars. The Haaning Collection features a café. A cinema shows car-themed films. There is also a workshop, racing simulators, and meeting rooms. Even an outdoor playground for children completes the experience.
Special exhibitions and rotating displays ensure there is always something new. The Haaning Collection is more than a museum. It is a destination. Here, automotive history comes to life. It is a testament to one family’s passion.
Before you go, take a moment to appreciate the dedication of the Haaning family. They have created a place where memories are relived and new ones are made. The Haaning Collection is a must-see for anyone visiting Copenhagen. It is a shining example of Danish automotive heritage.