Hundige

In the heart of Greve Municipality lies Hundige. Hundige is more than just a suburb. It’s a fascinating blend of history, commerce, and culture, located just 18 kilometers southwest of Copenhagen. Originally a small town, Hundige underwent a transformation in the 1960s, evolving into the suburb we see today. A pivotal moment in Hundige’s history was its connection to Copenhagen’s S-train network in 1976, thanks to the Hundige railway station. This connection opened up Hundige to greater integration with the bustling capital. Hundige is perhaps best known for its impressive shopping center. Originally built in 1974 as Hundige StorCenter, it was reborn in 2009 as WAVES. This isn’t just any shopping mall. WAVES boasts the title of Denmark’s largest mall by leasable space, a sprawling 78,000 square meters. It houses over 135 stores and restaurants, including Denmark’s third largest Bilka. With 3,200 free parking spaces, it’s clear that WAVES caters primarily to car-based shoppers. The mall’s impact on the local economy is significant. It employs over 1,500 people, making it the largest employer in Greve Municipality. Hundige has also faced challenges. The suburb has grappled with a relatively high crime rate, largely concentrated in the Askerød housing project. This concrete complex of 722 apartments has been portrayed, sometimes controversially, as an immigrant ghetto by Danish media. However, Hundige is also a place of notable residents. From actress Bodil Joensen to rapper Lars Ankerstjerne Christensen and football player Ricki Olsen, Hundige has contributed to Denmark’s cultural landscape. Hundige is a place of contrasts. It’s a place where a large shopping mall coexists with social challenges. It’s a place where history intertwines with modern development. A visit to Hundige offers a glimpse into the complexities of suburban life in Denmark, a story of growth, challenges, and the enduring spirit of its community.