Background

The Memorial Anchor at Nyhavn: Copenhagen’s Maritime Remembrance

A historic anchor monument honoring Danish WWII sailors, set at the heart of scenic Nyhavn, blending maritime history with Copenhagen’s lively canal atmosphere.

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The Memorial Anchor stands at the picturesque entrance to Nyhavn, Copenhagen’s iconic canal district. This imposing anchor monument honors Danish sailors who lost their lives during World War II. Set against vibrant waterside façades and bustling outdoor cafés, it’s both a poignant historic site and a scenic gathering point for locals and visitors alike.

A brief summary to Memorial Anchor

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning for the best photos, before the crowds fill Nyhavn’s cafés and walkways.
  • The Memorial Anchor is the focal point for Denmark’s Liberation Day on May 5 – expect commemorative events and beautiful floral tributes.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll along Nyhavn’s canal side or a canal tour—all start just meters from the anchor.
  • If you’re interested in maritime history, note the nearby signs in Danish and English that provide further context about the monument.
  • Accessibility is excellent; the plaza is flat and accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the heart of Indre By, the Memorial Anchor is easily reached with a pleasant 5–10 minute walk through Copenhagen’s historic inner city. As you approach Nyhavn, the canal’s colorful houses and the sound of lively cafés mark your arrival—the anchor itself stands prominently at the canal’s entrance. Walking is free and offers engaging city views along the route.

  • Public Transport

    The nearest metro stop is Kongens Nytorv, from which Nyhavn is a short 2–5 minute walk. Single tickets within the city zone cost around DKK 24. Public transport is wheelchair accessible, and from the station the route is clearly marked by signs toward the canal and harbor.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from central Indre By generally takes less than 5 minutes and drops you near the edge of Nyhavn. Expect to pay around DKK 65–110 depending on traffic and time of day. Note that vehicle access is limited at Nyhavn, so you may need to walk the final stretch.

  • Driving

    Driving directly to Nyhavn is possible, but parking in the area is limited and typically paid, with municipal lots averaging DKK 37 per hour. Be prepared for a short walk from the nearest parking facilities, especially during busy periods.

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Discover more about Memorial Anchor

Occupying a prominent position at the end of vibrant Nyhavn, the Memorial Anchor is one of Copenhagen's most recognized landmarks. It commemorates the more than 1,700 Danish sailors who died serving in the merchant fleet during World War II, their memory immortalized by this immense anchor set on a cobblestone platform. The anchor itself, weighing several tons, once belonged to the frigate Fyn and has stood here since 1951, a powerful physical and symbolical tribute to Denmark’s strong maritime tradition and the sacrifices of those who supported the country during a tumultuous era. Surrounded by the colorful 17th-century houses and lively energy of Nyhavn, the Memorial Anchor serves as a natural meeting point. Throughout the year, it’s the centerpiece of gatherings and commemorative ceremonies, particularly on May 5, Denmark’s Liberation Day, when the area fills with fresh flowers and Danish flags. Its location is ideal for reflection, overlooking the boats bobbing in the canal and the steady flow of city life, yet offering space for quiet remembrance as well. Accessibility is seamless, with wide, level walking paths and proximity to Copenhagen’s main attractions making this a convenient, free stop for visitors. The Memorial Anchor is also frequently photographed, not just for its historic significance but for the backdrop of one of the city’s most photogenic quarters. Whether travelers are passing through Nyhavn or pausing for a moment of contemplation, the Memorial Anchor fuses historical gravitas with the everyday vibrancy of the Danish capital.

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