The Cisterns: Frederiksberg’s Subterranean Art Sanctuary
A hidden underground reservoir in Søndermarken Park, now an atmospheric venue for contemporary art installations and sensory experiences in Frederiksberg.
Hidden beneath Søndermarken Park, The Cisterns offer a hauntingly atmospheric journey into a vast, dimly-lit underground water reservoir transformed into an avant-garde exhibition space. Originally built in 1856 to supply Copenhagen with drinking water, the Cisterns now host immersive contemporary art installations, where light, sound, moisture, and reflections blend with striking architecture. This otherworldly setting invites visitors into an experience that’s as much about art as it is about the evocative interplay between history and environment.
A brief summary to Cisterns in Søndermarken
- Roskildevej 25A, Frederiksberg, 2000, DK
- +4530738032
- Visit website
Local tips
- Bring a light jacket—temperatures underground are cool, even in summer.
- Footwear with good grip is advised due to the damp and occasionally slippery floor.
- Exhibitions change annually, so repeat visits can deliver completely different experiences.
- Photography is permitted but flash is not allowed—the low light conditions add to the mystique.
Getting There
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Walking
From Frederiksberg’s main shopping avenues or the Town Hall, the Cisterns are a pleasant 15–20 minute stroll westward through residential streets into Søndermarken Park. The entrance is marked by a modern glass structure near mythic statues, just inside the park’s edge.
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Public Transport
Frequent buses from Frederiksberg’s central squares stop close to Søndermarken’s gates. Expect a ride of 8–15 minutes, with single-zone tickets averaging 24 DKK. From the park entrance, the Cisterns are clearly signposted just inside the grounds.
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Taxi
A taxi from central Frederiksberg typically takes around 5–8 minutes depending on traffic and costs 90–120 DKK. Set-down is available near the park’s main gate.
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Driving/Parking
Driving is possible, though parking near Søndermarken’s entrances is limited and metered at about 19 DKK per hour. No special restrictions, but weekend afternoons can be busy with park visitors.
Discover more about Cisterns in Søndermarken
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