Heracles and the Hydra: Mythic Strength at the Gates of Kronborg
Dramatic bronze sculpture at Kronborg Castle's gates, capturing the mythical struggle between Heracles and the Hydra, a blending of Greek legend and Danish artistry.
Set against the regal backdrop of Kronborg Castle in Helsingør, the 'Heracles and the Hydra' sculpture is a striking bronze masterpiece depicting the Greek hero locked in legendary battle with the serpentine Hydra. This modern sculpture stands as a dramatic invitation to the castle grounds, blending ancient myth with Danish artistry and offering visitors a photogenic and thought-provoking landmark en route to one of Denmark’s most celebrated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
A brief summary to Promenaden
- Helsingør, 3000, DK
- 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
- The sculpture is particularly stunning in the early morning or late afternoon light, when shadows add intensity to the figures.
- Combine your visit with a walk around Kronborg Castle’s moat for varied scenic photo angles.
- There's no admission fee to view the statue, but nearby paid parking can get busy during weekends and high season.
- Interpretative signs near the statue explain both the myth and local artistic context—worth a few minutes’ read.
- This site is fully accessible, with smooth paths suited for strollers and wheelchairs.
Getting There
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Walking
From Helsingør’s bustling station and the main square, the approach to Kronborg Castle is a scenic walk along the waterfront, with the spires of the castle soon coming into view. As you near the castle grounds, the Heracles and the Hydra statue marks the landscaped approach just outside the stone ramparts. The walk typically takes 10–15 minutes and is well-suited to strolling, with benches and cafés along the way.
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Public Transport
Short local buses from Helsingør’s central hub stop at the Kronborg area, depositing visitors only a few minutes’ walk from the statue and castle entrance. Single adult fares within Helsingør average 24 DKK. Bus stops and signs clearly indicate the direction to the castle and sculpture.
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Taxi
A quick taxi ride from Helsingør’s main station or city center to Kronborg takes about 5–8 minutes, typically costing 70–100 DKK. Taxis can drop off passengers at the parking zones near the castle forecourt, from which the sculpture is clearly visible.
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Driving/Parking
Drivers can utilize dedicated parking near the Kronborg gatehouse (average 16–20 DKK per hour). The area can be busy in summer, so allow time for possible short waits or use the overflow lots just outside the immediate castle zone. No tolls apply, and signposting for Kronborg is prominent citywide.
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