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Gefion Fountain: Copenhagen’s Majestic Norse Spectacle

Copenhagen’s grand Norse fountain, a mythic bronze masterpiece beside Kastellet, blending local legend, striking artistry, and panoramic city park views.

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Set beside the waters of Kastellet, the Gefion Fountain is one of Copenhagen’s grandest public artworks. This powerful bronze fountain, depicting the Norse goddess Gefion driving oxen, ties local legend to the roots of Danish identity. Surrounded by green parkland at the edge of Churchillparken, the fountain’s dramatic jetting waters and mythic sculpture attract tourists and locals alike. It is a photogenic, freely accessible highlight on the city’s northern promenade, close to the Little Mermaid and other top sights.

A brief summary to Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-9 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit in the early morning or late evening for magical light and fewer visitors—ideal for photos.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll around Kastellet’s star-shaped ramparts or a stop by the nearby Little Mermaid.
  • The area is largely accessible, but some cobblestone paths may be uneven—sturdy shoes recommended.
  • Public toilets are available within Churchillparken, a short walk west of the fountain.
  • Bring a picnic or snack from the city center; riverside benches make for a charming, relaxed lunch setting.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the city center, enjoy a scenic 15–20-minute walk through central Copenhagen, passing by Amalienborg Palace and along tree-lined parkways. The fountain is clearly visible at the edge of Churchillparken, near the star-shaped citadel of Kastellet. St. Alban's Church and the harbor act as perfect orientation points. Walking is free and comfortable for most visitors.

  • Public Transport

    Several city buses and the M3 Metro (Marmorkirken station) bring you within a 7–10 minute walk of the site. The area is directly linked to key tourist districts; standard city fare applies (24 DKK for a single ticket), and stops are clustered around Amalienborg and the park. Watch for clear signage towards Churchillparken on arrival.

  • Taxi

    Taxis from the main train station or popular hotels usually take under 10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect fares around 90–130 DKK each way. The location is prominent, with drop-off points at Churchillparken’s edge or alongside the citadel. Parking for private cars is limited nearby and can be expensive.

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Discover more about Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

Few landmarks in Copenhagen capture the interplay of myth, artistry, and national pride as completely as the Gefion Fountain. Completed in 1908, this monumental fountain anchors the green expanse of Churchillparken, standing just before the centuries-old citadel of Kastellet and a stone’s throw from the harborfront. It was designed by Danish sculptor Anders Bundgaard to commemorate Copenhagen’s 50th anniversary as a city, but its real power lies in storytelling: the fountain brings to life the dramatic Norse legend of the goddess Gefion, who created the island of Zealand by plowing land from Sweden using her magical oxen—her sons, transformed by Odin. Gleaming bronze oxen strain with surge and muscle at the water’s heart, while cascades tumble down tiers of worn stones into wide basins. The setting is as impressive as its mythic subject: Churchillparken is tranquil yet central, with views of St. Alban’s Church, the star-shaped ramparts of Kastellet, and Copenhagen’s busy harbor. This is a favorite stop for strolls and photographs—especially as sunlight or mist brings surprising play to water and metal. The fountain was restored in the late 20th century to sparkle anew, and today it remains a beloved gathering spot for celebrations or quiet contemplation alike. There is no admission fee, and the site is open year-round. On summer days, it’s common to see picnickers, tour groups, and locals relaxing against the gently rumbling soundtrack of falling water. In winter’s hush, its mythic forms gain added drama, shrouded in mist or illuminated against long Nordic twilights. The Gefion Fountain is not just a visual spectacle; it’s a gateway into Denmark’s cultural imagination—uniting past legend, urban beauty, and national identity in one striking location.

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