Erik af Pommerns Mindebrønd, Helsingør
Compact yet grand, this memorial fountain on Axeltorv turns a busy Helsingør square into a vivid snapshot of royal power, maritime trade and urban ambition.
Erik af Pommerns Mindebrønd is a striking memorial fountain on Axeltorv, in the heart of Helsingør’s old town. Created by sculptor Einar Utzon-Frank and unveiled in 1926 for the town’s 500th market charter anniversary, it features a bronze statue of King Erik of Pomerania on a tall pale stone plinth above a low water basin. Inscriptions recall his decisive role in granting market rights, introducing the Øresund toll, and initiating the castle that would become Kronborg, making this small square a compact lesson in medieval Danish power and maritime trade.
A brief summary to Erik af Pommerns Mindebrønd
- Kampergade 7, Helsingør, 3000, DK
- Duration: 0.25 to 0.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Walk a full circle around the fountain to read all inscriptions; together they outline Helsingør’s transformation from small settlement to strategic market town.
- Visit in the early morning or at dusk for softer light on the bronze and stone, ideal for close-up photos of the statue and its sculpted details.
- Combine a short stop here with nearby sights such as Kronborg Castle and the harbourfront to connect the monument’s text with the surrounding landscape.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and short walk from Copenhagen
Take a regional train from central Copenhagen to Helsingør Station; departures run several times per hour and the journey takes about 45–50 minutes. A standard adult ticket typically costs around 80–110 DKK one way, depending on discounts and time of purchase. From Helsingør Station it is an easy 10–15 minute walk through the old town to Axeltorv, where the memorial fountain stands on the northern side of the square. The route is flat and paved but can feel busy during peak shopping hours.
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Car from North Zealand
If you are already in North Zealand, driving to Helsingør via the coastal road is straightforward and usually takes 20–40 minutes from nearby towns such as Hillerød or Hornbæk, depending on traffic. Public parking garages and open lots are available within a 5–10 minute walk of Axeltorv, with typical fees in the range of 10–25 DKK per hour and time limits in central zones. The streets immediately around the square are often narrow and one‑way, so it is easier to park slightly outside the pedestrian core and continue on foot over level cobblestones.
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Ferry and walk from Helsingborg
From Helsingborg in Sweden, frequent passenger and car ferries cross the Øresund to Helsingør, with a crossing time of about 20 minutes and total travel time including boarding of around 40–60 minutes. A foot passenger ticket usually costs in the region of 60–100 DKK one way, with higher prices for vehicles. After disembarking at Helsingør ferry terminal, expect a flat 10–15 minute walk through the harbour area and old streets to reach Axeltorv and the memorial fountain.
Erik af Pommerns Mindebrønd location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Erik af Pommerns Mindebrønd
A king watching over Helsingør’s market square
Erik af Pommerns Mindebrønd stands in the northern end of Axeltorv, the central square of Helsingør, where cobbled paving, cafés and market stalls frame this proud fountain. Here, the bronze figure of King Erik of Pomerania rises above the bustle, as if still supervising the town he helped shape in the 1400s. His gaze is set above the square, connecting the everyday life of shoppers and strollers with Helsingør’s long maritime story. The setting is compact but atmospheric. In summer, the air carries a mix of roasted coffee, flowers and street music, while the fountain’s basin adds a gentle splash to the sounds of conversation. In winter, the pale stone and dark bronze stand out against low Nordic light, giving the monument a more solemn, sculptural presence in the quiet square.Bronze, limestone and the language of power
The memorial fountain was designed by Danish sculptor Einar Utzon-Frank and unveiled in 1926, marking 500 years since Helsingør received key market privileges in 1426. The materials are simple yet expressive: a tall, pale plinth in limestone from Faxe, with a bronze statue of the king mounted high above a low water basin. The contrast between cool stone and dark metal underlines the monument’s vertical thrust, drawing your eyes up to the royal figure. Utzon-Frank’s Erik is not shown in battle or ceremony, but in a composed, almost reflective stance. His cloak falls in heavy folds, and the stylised treatment of details recalls early 20th‑century classicism. At ground level, the circular basin invites you to walk around the work, seeing how the statue aligns differently with surrounding façades and the open sky as you change position.Inscriptions that tell a city’s origin story
One of the most distinctive features of the fountain is its dense band of text. On the front, an inscription reads “Mit haab staar til havet” – “My hope rests in the sea” – a concise motto for a ruler whose fortunes were tied to maritime trade. Around the plinth, further text summarises Erik’s legacy in Helsingør: granting town privileges, introducing the Øresund toll on passing ships, and building the castle that would later evolve into Kronborg. This carved narrative continues with references to later rulers and dates, including the abolition of the toll in the 19th century and the rebuilding of the fortress. In just a few lines, the monument connects medieval policy decisions with centuries of shipping, taxation and fortification along the narrow strait between Denmark and Sweden.Helsingør’s medieval ambitions in bronze
Erik of Pomerania’s decision in 1426 to grant Helsingør extended trading rights transformed what was then a modest settlement into a significant market town on one of Northern Europe’s busiest sea routes. By levying the Øresund toll on every ship passing the strait, the Danish crown tapped into a steady financial stream, while Helsingør developed warehouses, ship services and a cosmopolitan waterfront. The memorial fountain compresses these ambitions into a single vertical gesture. Standing beneath the statue, you can imagine the dense traffic of medieval cogs and later tall ships, their masts once visible from the square. The work serves as a focal point in a town where history is never far away, linking Axeltorv’s everyday commerce to the broader story of Baltic trade and royal authority.A convenient pause on a walk through old Helsingør
Beyond its historical references, the fountain functions as an easy, informal stop in the old town. Benches and café terraces nearby make it a natural place to pause with a drink, read the inscriptions at your own pace, or use the statue as a landmark while exploring narrow side streets. On market days the monument seems to float amid stalls of local produce and crafts. Because the square is open at all hours and there is no admission fee, you can visit briefly during a busy day or return at different times to see how changing light and weather alter the atmosphere. Whether you are tracing a route between Kronborg, the harbour and the cathedral, or simply wandering, Erik af Pommerns Mindebrønd offers a compact, readable introduction to how a single king’s decisions shaped the city that surrounds you.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
'Time of the shipyard' mural
0.2 km
A hyper-realistic tribute to Helsingør's legendary shipyard, painted by American master Garin Baker.
'The Middle Ages and the Sound Dues' mural
0.2 km
A vivid gable mural that turns Helsingør’s medieval tolls and ship traffic into a richly detailed open-air history lesson in the heart of the old town.
Helsingør harbour
0.3 km
Where maritime heritage meets Shakespeare's legacy at Denmark's gateway to Sweden.
Odd Fellow Logerne Helsingør
0.3 km
A dynamic hub for contemporary and experimental art in the heart of Roskilde, showcasing thought-provoking exhibitions and interactive creative experiences.
Elsinore Cemetery
0.4 km
Historic burial ground where 16th-century roots meet artistic legacy in Denmark's literary heartland.
Helsingor
0.4 km
Dynamic exhibitions, daring performances, and boundary-pushing installations in Roskilde’s historic royal palace—discover Denmark’s vibrant contemporary art scene.
Heracles and the Hydra
0.6 km
Mythological bronze warrior frozen in eternal combat on Helsingør's historic waterfront.
Kronborg Castle Church
0.8 km
Renaissance sanctuary that miraculously survived fire, preserving royal religious heritage within Hamlet's legendary castle.
Helsingborg City Hall
5.2 km
A monumental red-brick city hall and coastal gateway, where neo-Gothic towers, National Romantic detail and civic stories overlook the Øresund in central Helsingborg.
Louisiana Museum of Modern Art
8.5 km
Experience world-class modern art where architecture and nature meet in perfect harmony, offering breathtaking views and a serene escape just north of Copenhagen.
Hornbæk Batteri
10.2 km
WWII coastal fortress commanding the Øresund strait from Denmark's dramatic northern cliffs.
Hornbaek beach
11.8 km
Discover Hornbæk Beach, the gem of the Danish Riviera, offering pristine sands, clear waters, and a charming seaside atmosphere perfect for relaxation and unforgettable summer memories.
Observationsvärn nr 741
12.2 km
Explore the historical significance and scenic beauty of Observationsvärn nr 741 in Viken, a captivating landmark steeped in military history and stunning views.
Falkonergården
12.9 km
Explore the enchanting Falkonergården Zoo in Fredensborg, a captivating destination for wildlife enthusiasts and families seeking adventure in nature.
Esrum Kloster & Møllegård
14.5 km
Discover the captivating history and serene beauty of Esrum Kloster & Møllegård, a former Cistercian monastery nestled in the heart of North Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Unmissable attractions to see
i Helsingør
0.1 km
Compact tourist information hub on historic Stjernegade, perfectly placed to plan your exploration of Helsingør’s old town, harbour culture sites and North Zealand.
History of the churches
0.2 km
A storytelling gable in Helsingør’s old town, this mural compresses centuries of church history into a single vivid scene between two medieval sanctuaries.
St. Mary's Church
0.2 km
Historic public square at the heart of Roskilde, home to markets, festivals, and community life, framed by centuries-old buildings and vibrant Danish tradition.
SOUL OF THE WALLS
0.2 km
Immersive bronze sculpture depicting Greek mythology at the gates of Kronborg Castle, offering a unique photo spot and cultural layer to Helsingør’s historic landscape.
St. Vincent's Church
0.2 km
North Zealand’s only Roman Catholic church, a white-towered 1930 sanctuary in Helsingør offering quiet reflection, modest Romanesque-inspired architecture and living parish life.
Saint Olai Church
0.2 km
Discover Saint Olai Church, Helsingør's majestic cathedral, where centuries of Danish history and Gothic elegance meet amid soaring vaults and maritime heritage.
'The maritime history' mural
0.3 km
A harbour gable transformed into a sweeping, collage-like tribute to 300 years of Danish seafaring, anchoring Helsingør’s shipyard era in vivid colour and form.
Arte callejero
0.3 km
Industrial-era Helsingør splashed across a gable wall: a bold shipyard mural that fuses street art style with the town’s maritime past on Allegade 7B.
Elsinore Public Museums
0.3 km
Three interconnected museums preserving 600 years of Elsinore's maritime, commercial, and industrial heritage in Denmark's historic city center.
Dancer's fountain
0.3 km
A delicate bronze trio of Royal Danish Ballet dancers, Danserindebrønden is a quiet green-corner fountain where Helsingør’s everyday life meets timeless grace.
Gl.Færgestræde
0.3 km
Iconic bronze sculpture of Heracles battling the Hydra, set beside Kronborg Castle, connecting ancient mythology with Helsingør’s dramatic seaside history.
Skibsklarerergaarden
0.3 km
Step into an 18th‑century ship handler’s home in Helsingør and experience the intimate world of Øresund tolls, merchant families and maritime trade.
Wibroe Plads
0.3 km
A modest harbourfront square where merchant mansions, cobbled edges and Øresund views quietly reveal Helsingør’s long maritime story.
Fyrskibet nr. XVII
0.3 km
A 19th-century Danish lightship turned floating monument, Fyrskibet nr. XVII “Gedser Rev” brings Helsingør’s maritime and Cold War history vividly to life on the harbor.
Memorial stone for fallen Helsingorans
0.4 km
A modest harbor-side monument in Helsingør honoring local lives lost in World War II, quietly linking the busy waterfront to the town’s stories of resistance and sacrifice.
Essential places to dine
Gæstgivergården
0.0 km
Cosy Helsingør gastropub serving traditional Danish comfort food, a changing daily dish and relaxed drinks in a central old‑town setting.
Restaurant MOS
0.0 km
Fine-dining Nordic cuisine in an intimate Helsingør setting with gastronomic ambitions and artistic presentation.
Chums Vinbar & Bistro, Helsingør
0.0 km
Cosy wine bar and bistro in Helsingør’s old streets, known for baked cheeses, tarte flambée and well-chosen European wines in an intimate, candlelit setting.
Axelbar
0.0 km
Cozy brasserie-bar in Helsingør’s historic centre, serving generous comfort dishes, brunch and drinks in a relaxed, grown-up atmosphere close to the harbour.
Café Chaplin
0.0 km
Cozy, Chaplin‑themed café in Helsingør’s old town, serving hearty brunches and relaxed daytime meals in a warm, unpretentious neighbourhood setting.
Restaurant Dansk
0.0 km
Cosy, low-key spot in Helsingør’s old town serving straightforward Danish comfort food in a lived‑in, neighbourhood setting.
joud alsham
0.0 km
Unpretentious Syrian shawarma, falafel and grills served with Levantine warmth on a cozy corner of Helsingør’s historic Torvegade.
Restaurant Torvet
0.1 km
Casual, family-friendly dining in the heart of Helsingør, serving classic comfort dishes and café staples just steps from the town’s historic streets.
Restaurant OE
0.1 km
Modern Asian cooking with a Nordic touch in the heart of Helsingør’s old town, mixing fragrant Thai flavors, cozy design and an intimate, relaxed dining room.
Bao Takeaway
0.1 km
Fast, flavourful Asian takeaway in the heart of Helsingør’s old town, serving budget-friendly Thai, Chinese and Vietnamese-style comfort food for easy evenings.
Martinellis
0.1 km
Neighbourhood-style Italian deli and pizzeria in central Helsingør, serving crisp-based pizzas, classic pasta and hearty sandwiches in a relaxed, takeaway-friendly setting.
Om Indian
0.1 km
Authentic Indian home cooking with family recipes, open kitchen views, and genuine hospitality in cozy Helsingør.
Sachi Sushi
0.1 km
Cozy Japanese fusion spot in Helsingør’s old town, serving colorful sushi rolls, generous combo menus and convenient takeaway from a central Stjernegade address.
Zilleri
0.1 km
Compact Italian trattoria and deli in Helsingør’s old town, serving homemade pasta and classic specialties among shelves of wines and pantry staples.
The Copenhagener
0.1 km
Hearty smørrebrød, local Wiibroe beer and down‑to‑earth hygge in a tucked‑away Helsingør pub with a summery courtyard beer garden.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Butik Chaplin
0.1 km
A cosy Helsingør boutique brimming with handmade jewelry, retro interiors and knitwear, where every carefully chosen piece tells a small, colourful story.
Krystallen
0.1 km
Helsingør's premier crystal and mineral shop with expertly curated specimens and atmospheric presentation.
Danmission Op Shop
0.1 km
Ethical treasure-hunting in Helsingør’s old town, where ever-changing second-hand finds support Danmission’s humanitarian work far beyond Denmark.
Levende Lys
0.2 km
A cosy, colour-filled fashion and lifestyle boutique in the heart of Helsingør, blending contemporary women’s clothing with playful home décor and gift ideas.
Ide Nyt
0.2 km
A contemporary women’s fashion boutique on lively Bjergegade, Ide Nyt blends Scandinavian style, quality brands and a calm atmosphere in Helsingør’s historic heart.
HL Mode A/S
0.2 km
Contemporary Danish fashion retailer offering curated brands and personalized styling in Helsingør's vibrant shopping district.
Jutebar Denmark ApS
0.2 km
Small Helsingør boutique specialising in stylish, sustainable jute bags and gifts, blending Scandinavian design sensibility with everyday practicality.
Happy Gifts & Souvenirs
0.2 km
Compact, cheerful and central, Happy Gifts & Souvenirs is Helsingør’s easy stop for Danish-themed keepsakes and Kronborg-inspired mementos after a day of exploring.
Østens Perle
0.2 km
Colourful Indian-inspired gift and handicraft shop in historic Helsingør, filled with hand-picked textiles, spiritual objects and cosy home décor since 2001.
Jørgensen & Co.
0.2 km
Exclusive curated fashion for discerning tastes in historic Helsingør's charming pedestrian district.
Butik hos Anna & Sofie
0.3 km
A cosy, Nordic-style boutique on Helsingør’s main street, blending women’s fashion, skincare and homewares in a warm, living-room-like setting.
Helsingør Kaffe og Thehus ApS
0.3 km
A cosy Helsingør specialty shop where the aroma of freshly roasted coffee, fine tea and Nordic delicacies fills a historic cobbled lane in the heart of the old town.
Vandkanten Ilse Jacobsen Outlet
0.3 km
Compact Scandinavian outlet where Ilse Jacobsen’s coastal rainwear, rubber boots and relaxed Nordic fashion meet reduced prices in central Helsingør.
Helsingør Vinhandel
0.3 km
Denmark's premier wine and spirits specialist in historic Helsingør, where expertise meets passion.
Ophelia
0.3 km
Curated Scandinavian boutique in historic Helsingør, where literary heritage meets contemporary design.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Axelhus Udeservering
0.0 km
Open-air corner bar on Bjergegade, where simple food, cold beer and Axeltorv’s street life come together in the historic heart of Helsingør.
Hold-An
0.0 km
Unfussy beer hall and local bar in central Helsingør, pouring cold brews, simple bites and everyday Danish hygge from late morning to late night.
Axelhus
0.1 km
Casual bodega and burger bar in Helsingør's old town, open late on weekends with beer and Danish comfort food.
Pitten Sport Bar
0.1 km
Straightforward sports, cold beer and local Helsingør character in a relaxed neighbourhood bar just a short stroll from the harbour and historic centre.
Banana joe
0.2 km
Compact late-night bar above Helsingør’s nightlife strip, serving straightforward drinks, warm lighting and a relaxed local vibe long after the streets quieten.
Helsingør Musikteater
0.3 km
Historic theatre and bar hosting live concerts, exhibitions, and dinner events in central Elsinore.
Holger
0.3 km
Cozy cellar bodega on Helsingør’s Stengade, pouring inexpensive beers and spirits, with live music nights and a laid-back local crowd deep into the night.
Strandborg
0.3 km
Waterfront bar and restaurant where Helsingør's harbor views meet casual Nordic dining and evening social scene.
Head/Foam
0.5 km
Modern neighbourhood bar near Helsingør’s historic centre, pouring craft beer and cocktails from midday to the early hours in a lively, social setting.
Joker Bar
1.1 km
Relaxed Danish bar offering casual drinks and friendly conversation in historic Helsingør.
12`er Pubben
1.5 km
Unpretentious neighborhood bodega in Helsingør with billiards, sports on TV and cold beers, offering an authentic slice of Danish local bar life.
Gefion Bodega
1.5 km
Unpretentious neighbourhood bar in Helsingør offering classic Danish bodega atmosphere, simple drinks and a relaxed glimpse into everyday local life.
Kardusen
3.0 km
Casual wine bar in central Helsingør offering relaxed evenings and accessible pricing.
Oddies Beach Bar
17.5 km
Relaxed beach bar on the sand at Rungsted Havn, blending Nordic coastal charm with a hint of tropical island mood and sweeping Øresund sea views.
Jernstangen
22.3 km
Old-school Hillerød pub opposite the station, with billiards, darts, dice games and live music nights in a laid‑back, locals-first atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Retro
0.2 km
High-energy weekend nightclub in central Helsingør, mixing big-room beats, bright lights and a young crowd in what calls itself the largest club north of Copenhagen.
Rustik
0.5 km
Helsingør's premier weekend nightclub with craft cocktails and high-energy dancing until dawn.
Walther's grillkylling og svuppeklub
4.5 km
Intimate neighborhood nightclub in Helsingør with loud music, simple drinks, and a playful local vibe behind an unassuming facade on Rødegårdsvej.
Socialz
22.6 km
Intimate cocktail bar and nightclub in the heart of Hillerød, blending shisha lounge vibes, late-night DJ sets and a compact dance floor on lively Slotsgade.
SIGURD CPH
37.2 km
Discover the pulse of Copenhagen's nightlife at SIGURD CPH, where vibrant dancing, fine wines, and pachinko gaming come together for an unforgettable experience.
Afrobeat Palace Nightclub
37.7 km
Discover the energetic Afrobeat Palace Nightclub in Copenhagen, where music, dance, and multicultural vibes unite for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
RUST Natklub
38.5 km
Discover the pulsating heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at RUST Natklub, where eclectic beats and vibrant energy come together for an unforgettable experience.
Temple Bar
38.7 km
Discover the energetic vibe of Temple Bar in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, where great drinks and lively entertainment meet.
Culture Box
39.0 km
Discover the heartbeat of Copenhagen's nightlife at Culture Box, where music, art, and dance create an unforgettable experience.
Falafelberg
39.2 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Frederiksberg at Falafelberg, a night club offering delicious falafel and electrifying music for an unforgettable experience.
Mini Bar
39.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Mini Bar, a premier night club offering eclectic tunes and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
Mirage
39.5 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.
Arch
39.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Moon Club
39.5 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Copenhagen at Moon Club, where electrifying beats and vibrant energy create unforgettable nights.
The Zoo
39.6 km
Intimate late-night nightclub on Sværtegade in Copenhagen’s historic center, blending a compact dance floor, DJ-driven beats and a casual, social bar atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Instagrammable
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly
