“Thirty-six meters!” That’s how high Hvidovre Vandtårn stretches into the sky. This towering structure is more than just a water tower. It’s a landmark in Hvidovre.
Hvidovre Vandtårn was built in 1937. The location was chosen because it was one of Hvidovre’s highest points. Before its construction, residents relied on private wells for water. Imagine the novelty of a municipal water supply.
The decision to build the Hvidovre Vandtårn wasn’t universally embraced. A survey showed that not everyone wanted a waterworks. Still, the municipality moved forward. Hvidovre risked losing its water rights if a waterworks wasn’t completed by January 1, 1938.
Carl Jørgensen designed Hvidovre Vandtårn. He drew inspiration from Rundetårn in Copenhagen. H. Chr. Nielsen and son won the contract. The project cost 76,000 kr. Construction began on June 15, 1936 and finished in late 1937.
The Hvidovre Vandtårn could hold 300 m3 of water. The water tank sits at 30 meters high. Originally, there were plans to open Hvidovre Vandtårn to the public. However, public access has been rare.
Interestingly, Hvidovre Vandtårn now features climbing walls inside. These walls are primarily used by youth schools and institutions. This idea was introduced by police assistant Anton Dalsgaard in 1993.
Since 1978, radio amateurs have operated a repeater from the top of the tower.
After being owned by HOFOR for years, Hvidovre Municipality bought the tower back. In 2019, the municipality celebrated the return with festive lights.
So, next time you see the Hvidovre Vandtårn, remember its history. It’s not only a functional structure. It’s a symbol of Hvidovre’s development and innovation.