Gefion Fountain: Copenhagen’s Grand Myth in Bronze and Stone
An iconic Copenhagen fountain where Norse mythology, bronze artistry, and urban park life converge beside the harbor and historic citadel.
Rising at the edge of Churchillparken, not far from Copenhagen’s waterfront and the citadel of Kastellet, the Gefion Fountain is one of Denmark’s most celebrated monuments. This striking ensemble of bronze and granite was revealed in 1908 to mark the city’s thousandth anniversary, but its heart lies in the mythic dawn of Scandinavia. The sculpture portrays the Norse goddess Gefion commanding four mighty oxen—said to be her own sons, transformed by divine magic—to plough a swath of earth from Sweden, creating the island of Zealand on which Copenhagen stands. The drama of the scene is heightened by the torrent of water, cascading from the oxen’s hooves and claws, which fills the broad basin below with a sound and energy that engulf the viewer. Gefion Fountain is masterfully crafted by sculptor Anders Bundgaard and serves as a bridge between Copenhagen’s modern bustle and its ancient, myth-steeped roots. Shadows and sunlight play over the wet bronze, underscoring the vigor of the goddess and the raw strength of her supernatural team. Park benches, mature trees, and wide walking paths surround the monument, making it a popular destination for picnicking locals, photographers, and curious travelers. The location—set between the leafy fortress of Kastellet, the grand St. Alban’s Church, and the nearby Langelinie promenade—ensures a lively yet contemplative atmosphere. Free to visit at all times, the fountain is especially evocative at sunrise and sunset, when the water’s spray often glows in the low northern light and the neighborhood’s calm is occasionally punctuated by the bells of St. Alban’s. Its mythic symbolism and centrality to Copenhagen’s landscape have made it a vital stop for anyone exploring the city’s historical layers and cultural imagination.
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late evening for dramatic lighting and fewer crowds.
- Combine your visit with nearby Kastellet and the Little Mermaid statue for a half-day walking experience.
- Spring and summer offer especially lush park surroundings and lively local activity.
- Public toilets can be found nearby at Langelinie Park.
A brief summary to Church of Our Lady
- Nørregade 8, Copenhagen, København K, 1165, DK
- +4533151078
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Walking
From the heart of Copenhagen, such as City Hall or Kongens Nytorv, reaching Gefion Fountain means a pleasant walk through the city’s historic core and toward the waterfront. The route passes through lively urban spaces and green parks, with the dramatic outline of Kastellet’s star-shaped ramparts and the nearby spire of St. Alban’s Church serving as visible markers. Expect a stroll of about 25–30 minutes. The area is fully accessible but can be busy with pedestrians and cyclists, especially on weekends.
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Public Transport
From Copenhagen Central Station or Nørreport, several buses (including those toward the harbor and Langelinie) head toward the parkland near Gefion Fountain. A typical journey is 10–15 minutes, with public transport tickets for a single city journey costing around 24–30 DKK. From the bus stop, the fountain is clearly visible in Churchillparken among mature trees and open lawns.
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Taxi
Taxis from the city center usually take 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic and time of day. A typical fare ranges between 90–130 DKK, with drop-off available at the park entrance adjacent to the Kastellet and Langelinie promenade.
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Driving
Parking is available in designated areas along the harbor and at Langelinie, though availability can be limited, especially midday in peak season. City parking meters average 39–45 DKK per hour. The area is well-signposted for visitors headed to major attractions in Churchillparken.
