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Gefion Fountain: Copenhagen’s Majestic Myth in Bronze and Water

Copenhagen’s dramatic Gefion Fountain unites Norse mythology, artful bronze sculpture, and park-side relaxation at the city’s historic eastern waterfront.

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The Gefion Fountain is Copenhagen’s grandest and most photogenic fountain, featuring a dramatic bronze sculpture of the Norse goddess Gefion driving her four mighty oxen. Situated at the edge of the historic Churchill Park, it blends myth, artistry, and urban greenery, offering visitors not only a striking visual spectacle but also a window into Danish legends and identity. Surrounded by leafy walkways and close to the city’s iconic harbor, the fountain is a highlight for walkers, photographers, and anyone seeking a leisurely pause amid Copenhagen’s cultural riches.

A brief summary to Kunsthal Charlottenborg

  • Tuesday 12 pm-8 pm
  • Wednesday 12 pm-8 pm
  • Thursday 12 pm-8 pm
  • Friday 12 pm-8 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or at sunset for the most atmospheric lighting and fewer crowds.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through Churchillparken and a walk around the Kastellet star fortress.
  • Bring a camera—the interplay of water, sculpture, and light makes for striking photographs year-round.
  • The fountain operates year-round, but the water may be turned off during winter for maintenance.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the heart of Copenhagen, stroll toward the historic waterfront and the lush grounds of Churchillparken. The walk takes around 20 minutes, passing key city sights and bustling public squares, before you reach the prominent silhouette of St. Alban's Church. Here, the Gefion Fountain stands impressively at the edge of the park—no entry fee or restrictions apply.

  • Public Transport

    City buses and metro lines connect the central district with stops near the Kastellet fortress and Churchillparken. Expect a journey of 10–15 minutes, with local transit tickets costing about 24 DKK for a single ride. From the transport hubs, it’s a short walk along the leafy lawns to the fountain, clearly visible beside St. Alban’s Church.

  • Taxi

    Taxis from central Copenhagen reach Churchillparken and the Gefion Fountain in roughly 5–10 minutes, depending on traffic. Typical fares range from 90–130 DKK.

  • Driving/Parking

    Limited street or pay-and-display parking is available near Churchillparken, averaging 30–40 DKK per hour. It is recommended to arrive early, especially during weekends or high season, as spaces fill quickly. No special tolls or fees apply for access.

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Dominating the eastern edge of Copenhagen’s Churchillparken, the Gefion Fountain is a remarkable testament to Danish mythology and public art. At its heart is an enormous bronze sculpture depicting the goddess Gefion, heaving her plough as four robust oxen strain before her. According to legend, Gefion—a figure from Norse myth—was granted land by the Swedish king, which she carved from Sweden and transported to create the island of Zealand using her magically transformed sons. This vivid tale comes alive in Anders Bundgaard’s evocative sculptural group, completed in 1908 for Copenhagen’s thousandth anniversary. Water surges forcefully around the composition, accentuating the motion and mythic struggle of the figures while creating a hypnotic atmosphere for onlookers. The fountain sits at a crossroads of history and greenery, with the verdant lawns of Churchillparken forming a tranquil buffer from city bustle. Visitors often linger here for the panoramic view toward the Kastellet fortress's star-shaped ramparts, the elegant St. Alban’s Church, and the nearby harbor. Seasonal blooms, mature trees, and carefully maintained paths make it a favorite local spot for picnics, quiet reflection, or a scenic detour on a city walk. From early morning to evening, the soundscape is shaped by cycling locals, chatting tour groups, and the rush of water. There is no entry fee or gate—it’s open at all hours, inviting both spontaneous visits and quiet moments outside of typical sightseeing. As a location deeply intertwined with Danish identity and easily reached on foot from the city center, the Gefion Fountain ranks among Copenhagen’s most accessible and photogenic sights, drawing visitors back for its blend of legend, art, and open-air serenity.

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