Copenhagen, the capital city of Denmark, is not only known for its vibrant culture, history, and architecture, but also for its connection to the beloved fairy tale, "The Little Mermaid". The iconic statue of the Little Mermaid, located in the harbor of Copenhagen, has become one of the city's most famous landmarks and a must-see for tourists.
History of the Statue:
The statue was created by Danish sculptor Edvard Eriksen and unveiled on August 23, 1913. It was inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale "The Little Mermaid", which was written in 1837. The statue depicts the mermaid perched on a rock with her hair flowing in the wind, gazing wistfully out to sea. The original statue is made of bronze and stands about 1.25 meters tall.
The Little Mermaid's Journey:
The Little Mermaid statue has had a tumultuous journey since its unveiling. In 1964, the statue was decapitated and stolen by vandals. It was later found and restored, and a new head was cast from the original mold. In 1984, the statue was again vandalized, this time losing its right arm. The arm was later found and reattached.
Despite the vandalism, the Little Mermaid statue has remained a beloved symbol of Copenhagen and has inspired countless visitors over the years. It has been the subject of many photographs, paintings, and postcards and has become an iconic image of Denmark.
Visiting the Little Mermaid Statue:
The Little Mermaid statue is located on the Langelinie promenade in Copenhagen, close to the cruise ship terminal. The statue is easily accessible by public transportation or by foot, and there is no admission fee to visit. However, due to its popularity, it can get quite crowded with tourists, especially during the summer months.
Nearby Attractions:
While visiting the Little Mermaid statue, there are several other nearby attractions to explore. The Kastellet, a historic fortress, is located just a short walk away and offers stunning views of the harbor. The Amalienborg Palace, the winter residence of the Danish royal family, is also nearby and offers guided tours.
FAQs
- What inspired the creation of the Little Mermaid statue?
The Little Mermaid statue was inspired by the famous fairy tale of the same name, written by Danish author Hans Christian Andersen. The statue's creator, Danish sculptor Edvard Eriksen, was commissioned to create the statue as a tribute to Andersen.
- How tall is the Little Mermaid statue?
The original bronze statue of the Little Mermaid stands at a height of 1.25 meters or 4.1 feet tall. There are other replicas of the statue in different parts of the world, but the original statue remains in Copenhagen.
- Why has the Little Mermaid statue been vandalized multiple times?
Despite its beloved status, the Little Mermaid statue has been the target of vandals on multiple occasions. In 1964, the statue was decapitated and stolen by vandals, and in 1984, its right arm was cut off. The reasons for the vandalism remain unclear, but the statue has since been restored each time.
- Is the Little Mermaid statue located in a busy area?
Yes, the Little Mermaid statue is located on the Langelinie promenade in Copenhagen, close to the cruise ship terminal, and it can get quite crowded with tourists, especially during the summer months. However, the nearby Kastellet fortress and Amalienborg Palace are also popular attractions and are worth visiting while in the area.
- Can visitors climb on the Little Mermaid statue?
No, visitors are not allowed to climb on or touch the Little Mermaid statue. The statue is meant to be viewed from a distance and admired for its beauty and significance as a cultural landmark. Visitors are encouraged to take photos and enjoy the view of the statue from the promenade.
Conclusion:
The Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen is a testament to the enduring popularity of Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale. Its journey over the years has only added to its charm and mystique, and it remains a must-see for anyone visiting the city. Whether you're a fan of the fairy tale or just looking to experience a unique piece of Danish culture, a visit to the Little Mermaid statue is sure to be a memorable experience.
