Kongelunden

Deep within Amager, a surprising oasis awaits. Kongelunden, the King’s Forest, whispers tales of resilience and royal delight. Kongelunden wasn’t always a lush woodland. Before 1818, Amager was barren, stripped of its trees by the ravages of war. Then Jonas Collin, a visionary leader, convinced local farmers to transform their pastureland. Imagine 800,000 saplings taking root, primarily oak chosen for their strength against the damp soil. Kongelunden emerged, a testament to human endeavor. King Christian VIII saw something special in this burgeoning forest. In 1845, he purchased Kongelunden, drawn by the exotic pheasants thriving within. He envisioned grand hunts with esteemed guests, making Kongelunden a royal playground. The forest wasn’t solely for royal amusement. Kongelunden became a popular destination for Copenhageners. The Royal Theater even staged a vaudeville, “A Sunday on Amager,” featuring the hit song “In Kongelunden the wedding stands,” a tribute to the Kongelundskro tavern. The tavern, once a bustling hub of activity, now exists only in memory, replaced by a parking space. A new Kongelundskro stands at the southwest corner, a nod to the past. Today, Kongelunden, managed by the Danish Nature Agency, invites you to explore its diverse ecosystem. Wander among ancient oaks, towering firs, and delicate birches. The forest floor bursts with life, from vibrant anemones to the rare firecracker cnidium dubium. Look up and you might spot not only the 300 bird species that call Kongelunden home but also the airplanes descending into Copenhagen Airport, a unique blend of nature and modernity. Kongelunden is more than just a forest. It’s a living testament to vision, resilience, and the enduring bond between humans and nature.