Elia: Denmark’s Giant Modern Sculpture in Herning
Elia is a breathtaking, avant-garde sculpture in Herning, Denmark—a fusion of contemporary art, architecture, and elemental spectacle, captivating visitors of all ages.
Elia is a monumental domed sculpture created by artist Ingvar Cronhammar, located on the outskirts of Herning, west of the Limfjord region. Rising above a grassy field, this striking, walkable landmark features a 60-metre diameter, dramatic torpedo-like spikes, and on occasion spouts columns of fire into the Danish sky. Not a typical statue, Elia offers a thought-provoking, immersive experience that draws visitors for art, reflection, and a dose of modern Nordic audacity.
A brief summary to Elia
- Birk Centerpark 15, Herning, 7400, DK
- Visit website
Local tips
- Elia’s fire display is random—don’t plan around it, but if you see the warning lights flash, a flame eruption is imminent.
- The wind can be surprisingly strong on the exposed dome—bring an extra layer, especially outside of summer.
- Combine your visit with a tour of the Birk Centerpark art district, home to contemporary museums and unique architecture.
- There is free public access to Elia day and night—the sculpture is especially impressive at dusk or under dramatic cloudscapes.
Getting There
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Driving
From Limfjord’s central districts, travelers can drive toward Herning, heading into the Birk Centerpark area known for its striking modern art and business campuses. The journey typically takes about 1–1.5 hours via the region’s main motorway routes. Free parking is available at the Birk Centerpark adjacent to Elia, but spaces can fill up during major event days.
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Public Transport
Regional trains from stations around Limfjord arrive at Herning Station in just over an hour. From the station, local buses run at regular intervals toward the Birk Centerpark area. It’s a 10–15-minute ride (Danish bus tickets average DKK 22–28 per adult), with Elia visible as you approach the art cluster. From the bus stop, it’s a short walk across landscaped grounds to the sculpture.
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Taxi
Taxis from Herning Station cover the final segment in about 8–12 minutes. Expect to pay DKK 110–160, depending on traffic and time of day, with drop-off convenient directly at Birk Centerpark’s entrance to Elia.
Discover more about Elia
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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