Envision a hidden guardian watching over Copenhagen. That guardian is Tinghøj Batteri. It stands as a testament to a time when defense was paramount.
Tinghøj Batteri was constructed in 1887-88. It formed part of Copenhagen’s fortifications. The battery mirrors Vangede Batteri in design. It was one of four concrete fortifications. These elements included Gladsaxe Fort, Bagsværd Fort, Buddinge Batteri, and a minimal part of the fortification canal. This canal connected Furesø with Lyngby Sø.
Tinghøj Batteri was strategically positioned. It sat back from Bagsværd Fort and Gladsaxe Fort. Its role was to support these forts and supplement Vestvolden if needed. This ensured comprehensive coverage.
The battery stretches about 300 meters. It is a crescent-shaped structure complete with a dry moat and glacis. The layout features two battery lines. The southern line had six concrete positions. The northern line had four. A casemate building separated them. This building housed ammunition magazines and crew quarters.
Six 15 cm iron cannons armed the battery lines. Also, there were four 12 cm iron cannons. They were placed on the left and right battery lines respectively. For close defense, the casemate building’s deck held two armored disappearing turrets. Each turret had an 8 mm 10-barrel mitrailleuse.
Three officers commanded Tinghøj Batteri. Thirteen non-commissioned officers supported them. One hundred enlisted men completed the garrison. However, in 1920 the battery was decommissioned.
Tinghøj Batteri sits in Gladsaxe Municipality. It is located off Vandtårnsvej. Intriguingly, it is on the grounds of the paint manufacturer Dyrup. Today, Dyrup owns the site.
Interestingly, the famous “women’s cannons” were once stationed at Tinghøj Batteri. These cannons were purchased through a defense collection among Danish women. They were bought from Krupp. Then they were gifted to the King.
Inside the casemate building is a remarkable painting on the ceiling. Supposedly, a conscript during the security force period created it. This adds a unique artistic touch to the military structure.
Tinghøj Batteri remains well-preserved. It has been used for storage. Despite some wear, it retains a unique charm. Its historical significance is undeniable. As we conclude our visit, remember Tinghøj Batteri. It is not just a relic of war. It is a piece of Copenhagen’s story.