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Hans Hulehånd by Thomas Dambo: Odense’s Whimsical Troll Sculpture

Discover Hans Hulehånd, Odense’s larger-than-life wooden troll sculpture by Thomas Dambo—an enchanting fusion of folklore, sustainable art, and natural beauty on Funen.

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Hans Hulehånd is a monumental troll sculpture by Danish artist Thomas Dambo, located near the green expanses of Odense. Crafted from recycled wood, this enchanting forest guardian captures the spirit of Scandinavian folklore and invites visitors of all ages to explore both art and nature in an imaginative outdoor setting.

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  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes—the area offers pleasant walking trails and grassy spots for relaxing or picnics near the troll.
  • Bring a camera; Hans Hulehånd is particularly photogenic at sunrise and sunset with dramatic skies and reflections.
  • Protect yourself against the elements—there’s minimal shelter nearby, so pack rain gear or sunblock as needed.
  • Check out other Dambo trolls around Denmark if inspired; many are mapped for easy discovery.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the heart of Odense, stroll eastward past the railway station and through the green corridors leading towards the city’s outer banks. The troll is reached after a gentle walk of approximately 20–30 minutes, passing open parks and water features. The final approach is entirely on footpaths, flat and suitable for most visitors. There is no admission charge, and the area is freely accessible throughout the year.

  • Public Transport

    Several local buses connect Odense's center to the neighborhoods near Østre Dæmning. Bus journeys typically range from 12–18 minutes; single adult tickets are approximately 24–28 DKK. From your stop, it’s a short walk through parkland and along quiet paths to reach the troll.

  • Taxi

    Taxis from central Odense reach the area near Hans Hulehånd in about 8–12 minutes. Fares usually range from 80 to 120 DKK depending on time of day and traffic. Taxis drop off at nearby public access points, after which a brief stroll through greenery leads to the sculpture.

  • Car

    Those arriving by car will find limited public parking options in the nearby vicinity, with street or municipal lots averaging 12–20 DKK per hour. Expect a short walk from parking areas across grassy fields or along waterside paths. There are no tolls or fees for entering the site itself, but spaces may be restricted on busy weekends.

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Hidden on the edge of Odense, Hans Hulehånd—created by renowned Danish artist Thomas Dambo—is a captivating example of Denmark’s love affair with folklore, imagination, and environmental art. Towering several meters tall, this whimsical troll is part of Dambo’s celebrated series of giant recycled-wood sculptures scattered throughout Denmark and across the globe. Each piece celebrates both the playful legend of trolls in Scandinavian culture and the importance of sustainability, using salvaged timber and local materials to create unforgettable encounters for explorers young and old. Hans Hulehånd sits amongst grassy banks and serene waters, embodying a gentle guardian of the wild. Its outstretched hand appears to offer protection and welcome to passersby, with intricate details that invite you to study its expressive face and sturdy wooden limbs up close. The experience is thoroughly interactive: children love to clamber on or around the troll, and adults often find themselves marveling at Dambo’s ingenuity and the broader environmental messages it carries. Visiting Hans Hulehånd is as much about the journey as the destination. The walk leads you out of the busy city center and gently transitions into a tranquil, almost magical environment. There are no fences or admission booths—just an open invitation to pause, reflect, and capture photos in a place where nature and creativity intertwine. Nearby, you’ll find picturesque footpaths, tranquil stretches of water, and occasional touring cyclists or joggers. While the troll is always out in the elements—rain or shine—its setting makes it appealing year-round. Families, photographers, and street art aficionados alike consider it a Funen highlight. For many, it’s a gateway to the world of Thomas Dambo’s trolls, prompting further discovery throughout Denmark.

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