Statue of Michael Drewsen, Silkeborg
Bronze tribute to Silkeborg’s founding industrialist, anchoring the historic town square and local traditions at the heart of Denmark’s lake district.
Rising from the heart of Silkeborg’s main square, the bronze Statue of Michael Drewsen honours the industrialist regarded as the city’s founding father. Unveiled in 1892 in front of the Old Town Hall on Torvet, it anchors a pedestrian plaza framed by historic buildings, cafés and fountains. More than a monument, it is woven into local rituals, from graduation dances to everyday meet‑ups, and offers an atmospheric pause amid central Jutland’s lake district.
A brief summary to Statue of Michael Drewsen
- Torvet, Silkeborg, 8600, DK
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or in the golden hour before sunset for softer light that flatters both the bronze statue and the façades framing Torvet.
- Combine a stop at the statue with a visit to nearby Silkeborg Hovedgård and the museum to deepen your understanding of the town Drewsen helped shape.
- If visiting in late June or early July, watch for celebrating graduates in white caps dancing around the statue, a lively local tradition.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train and short walk from Aarhus
From Aarhus, take a regional train to Silkeborg Station, with journeys typically taking 45–55 minutes and departures around twice per hour during the day. A standard adult single ticket usually costs about 80–120 DKK depending on time and fare type. From Silkeborg Station it is an easy 10–15 minute level walk through the town centre to Torvet, suitable for most visitors and wheelchair users, with paved surfaces and frequent signage.
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Intercity bus within the Silkeborg area
Several local and regional buses stop at or near Silkeborg’s central bus stops close to the station, including routes connecting surrounding villages and suburbs. Typical travel times from nearby communities such as Virklund or Gjern range from 15 to 35 minutes, with adult fares usually between 20 and 40 DKK when using regional tickets or travel cards. From the bus stops, expect a 5–10 minute walk on flat pavements to reach the statue in Torvet.
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Car from the Aarhus region
Driving from central Aarhus to Silkeborg via the main highway network generally takes 35–50 minutes, depending on traffic. There is no dedicated parking at the statue, but several municipal car parks and on‑street spaces lie within a 5–10 minute walk of Torvet. Many central zones use time limits or paid parking, often around 10–20 DKK per hour, so check local signs carefully and be prepared for a short stroll through the pedestrian streets.
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Cycling within Silkeborg
Silkeborg has a network of cycle lanes and calm residential streets, making it practical to cycle from most neighbourhoods to the centre in 10–25 minutes. There is no fee to access the square, and bicycles can be parked at racks on surrounding streets, though you may need to walk the final stretch through pedestrian areas. Surfaces are mostly level, but take care during wet or icy weather when the paving stones can become slippery.
Statue of Michael Drewsen 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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Hot Weather
Discover more about Statue of Michael Drewsen
The founder watching over Silkeborg’s square
Michael Drewsen was the driving force behind Silkeborg’s transformation from remote manor land into a thriving paper-mill town in the mid‑19th century. As manager of the Silkeborg paper mill from 1844, he championed everything from better roads and rail connections to gasworks and a telegraph line, helping to plug this lakeside community into the wider world. The statue that bears his name stands on Torvet, the central square, directly in front of the Old Town Hall, as if still keeping an eye on the town he helped create. Here, in the paved open space, the monument doubles as a focal point and a handy landmark. The surrounding façades – including the former town hall and the long‑standing Hotel Dania – form a compact ensemble that feels more like an urban living room than a grand plaza. The sculpture is at human scale, easy to approach and study up close.Bronze artistry by Pedersen‑Dan
The statue was unveiled in 1892, eighteen years after Drewsen’s death, and was created by sculptor Hans Peder Pedersen‑Dan, also known for his depiction of the legendary Holger Danske at Kronborg Castle. Cast in bronze, Drewsen is portrayed standing, dignified yet approachable, dressed in contemporary 19th‑century attire. The plinth lifts him just high enough to stand out from the crowds while remaining part of daily life on the square. Details in the modelling reward a closer look: the fall of the coat, the expressive posture, and the thoughtful turn of the head suggest a man imagining the future of his town. The work reflects the era’s taste for realistic portrait monuments, meant both to commemorate and to instruct, presenting civic figures as role models in the urban landscape.From controversy to civic symbol
The idea of honouring Drewsen was not universally embraced. After his death in 1874, proposals for a memorial stirred debate. Some locals argued that his energy had mainly benefited his own enterprises and that he had not adequately safeguarded his workers’ future. Others saw him as the visionary who had put Silkeborg on the map through industrial growth, transport links and the acquisition of the steamer Hjejlen, which still plies the Silkeborg lakes. Despite the disagreement, permission was eventually granted to place the monument in Torvet. Over time, any initial controversy faded and the statue took on a more inclusive role as a symbol of the town’s modern birth. Today, it also connects with wider stories of Danish democracy and industry in the 1800s, echoing the era when new towns emerged around mills, railways and waterways.Traditions, celebrations and everyday moments
The statue is woven into local custom. One of the most charming traditions sees newly graduated students in white caps dancing around Drewsen’s plinth to celebrate the end of their exams. At other times of year, the square hosts markets and cultural events, with the monument serving as a constant backdrop. For visitors, Torvet offers a natural pause: benches, cafés and nearby fountains create an easygoing atmosphere where you can sit and watch cyclists, families and shoppers flow around the sculpture. In the softer light of morning or evening, the bronze takes on warmer tones, and the modest height makes it a pleasing subject for close‑up photos as well as wider shots capturing the square and church spire beyond.Gateway to Silkeborg’s historic core
Standing by the statue, you are at the heart of old Silkeborg. Just a short stroll away lies Silkeborg Hovedgård, the former manor house now serving as part of the town’s museum, and the Gudenå River with its historic steamboats. The proximity of these sites underlines Drewsen’s role in tying together industry, transport and civic life. Use the statue as an orienting point while exploring the pedestrian streets radiating from Torvet, where independent shops, bakeries and galleries occupy former townhouses. Even a brief stop at Michael Drewsen’s likeness provides context for the wider story of central Jutland’s lake country: a place where natural beauty and industrious ambition have long gone hand in hand.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
silkeborg
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Historic 1871 railway landmark connecting Central Jutland with frequent regional services and heritage charm.
Silkeborg Water Tower
0.5 km
A heritage-listed industrial landmark symbolising Silkeborg's textile manufacturing legacy.
Lovisehøj
3.1 km
A 73-meter forest hill with royal heritage and sweeping views across Danish lakes and woodlands.
Silkeborg Vesterskov mindesten
3.7 km
A modest memorial stone in Silkeborg Vesterskov, where forest tranquillity and wartime history meet in a quiet, contemplative woodland clearing.
Store Troldhøj
10.4 km
A cone-shaped summit offering panoramic valley views and a climbing tree in Denmark's scenic lake district.
Bølling Lake
10.7 km
A restored glacial lake offering scenic walks, excellent fishing, and peaceful nature immersion in central Jutland.
Himmelbjerget rutebåd
10.8 km
Denmark's highest point crowned by a historic tower, accessible by scenic lake cruise or forest trail.
Randershøj
10.9 km
A scenic hilltop viewpoint offering panoramic vistas across Denmark's lake-filled landscape and forest-covered terrain.
Folkemøde Mindesten anno 1839
11.2 km
Denmark's first democratic gathering, 1839—where ordinary citizens claimed their political voice.
Jutland's Automobile Museum
13.6 km
Discover Denmark's automotive history at Jutland's Automobile Museum in Gjern, showcasing vintage cars and motorcycles from the early 1900s to iconic post-war models, offering a unique glimpse into the nation's motoring heritage.
Abbey Mill
17.0 km
Explore Abbey Mill in Skanderborg: A picturesque blend of history and nature, perfect for leisurely strolls and unforgettable experiences.
Øm Klostermuseum
18.0 km
Discover Denmark's medieval monastic life at Øm Klostermuseum near Ry: Explore ruins, gardens, and artifacts revealing centuries of history and brewing traditions.
Jutland
20.4 km
Discover Jutland, Denmark: Explore Viking history, stunning nature, and family fun on the mainland peninsula, offering an authentic Danish experience.
Mossø
20.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Mossø, Denmark's third-largest lake, offering hiking, watersports, and historical sites in the heart of the Danish Lake District.
The Uncovered Bridge
23.5 km
A hidden railway bridge buried for 85 years, spectacularly restored and now one of Denmark's most beloved landmarks.
Unmissable attractions to see
Vægmaleri
0.2 km
Experience the tradition of Denmark’s lake steamers aboard Turbådene Himmelbjerget, a nostalgic boat journey bridging Ry, Silkeborg, and the legendary hill.
Museum Silkeborg, Hovedgården
0.3 km
Step into Silkeborg’s oldest manor house to meet Tollund Man, explore bog mysteries and trace the town’s journey from Iron Age wetlands to modern Jutland hub.
Tollundmanden
0.3 km
Meet the Tollund Man, a 2,400‑year‑old bog body whose hauntingly preserved face and story of ritual, death and discovery define Museum Silkeborg’s Iron Age heart.
Springvand
0.3 km
Silkeborg Langsø’s towering fountain turns the town’s central lake into a stage of water and light, blending engineering spectacle with everyday lakeside life.
Galerie Moderne Silkeborg
0.4 km
One of Scandinavia’s largest modern art galleries, blending CoBrA masterpieces, contemporary works and a welcoming, free-to-enter space in central Silkeborg.
Museum Silkeborg, Papirmuseet
0.4 km
A living paper workshop in Silkeborg’s old factory, where you watch pulp become sheets, learn about banknote paper and try your hand at this quietly magical craft.
Silkeborg Archive
0.4 km
Silkeborg’s collective memory, preserving documents, images and stories that trace the lakeside city’s journey from industrial outpost to modern municipality.
The Hjejle Agency
0.4 km
Denmark's oldest steamship still operating with its original 1861 engine, offering historic cruises through the scenic Silkeborg Lake District.
Badeanstalten
0.4 km
Denmark's most authentic bathhouse—a historic Nordic wellness sanctuary preserving centuries of bathing tradition.
Riverboat Jazz Festival
0.5 km
Swinging jazz, riverboats and long Nordic evenings fuse in Silkeborg’s lake district for a five-day celebration where the entire town becomes a waterside stage.
Kedelhuset
0.5 km
Intimate live music and performance venue in Silkeborg’s former paper mill boiler house, blending industrial charm with a modern black box concert hall.
Slotsholmen
0.7 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views over Silkeborg's heather-clad hills and serene lakes at Kongestolen, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Silkeborg Søerne
0.7 km
Denmark's premier water gateway—paddle, cruise, and explore the pristine lakes of Søhøjlandet from the heart of Silkeborg.
Museum Jorn, Silkeborg
1.1 km
Riverfront modern art sanctuary in Silkeborg, uniting Asger Jorn’s bold legacy, CoBrA masterpieces and hands-on creativity in an intimate, light-filled museum.
Dronningestolen
1.1 km
A modest forest hill with a royal name, Dronningestolen offers a framed Silkeborg panorama, woodland quiet and a sense of history above the lakeside town.
Essential places to dine
Panorama Mad & Vin
0.0 km
Classic Danish lunch and French brasserie cooking in Silkeborg’s old town hall, with white tablecloths, city views and a warm, urban-hygge atmosphere.
Drewsens Spisehus Silkeborg
0.0 km
Stylish Nordic sharing plates, brunch and speciality coffee served in Silkeborg’s historic town hall, overlooking the lively main square on Torvet.
Jensens Bøfhus
0.0 km
Casual Danish steakhouse on Silkeborg’s main square, serving familiar grills, burgers and family-friendly favourites in relaxed, central surroundings.
Underhuset
0.1 km
Family‑run brasserie on Silkeborg’s central square, blending Danish classics and French‑inspired dishes with a cosy dining room and lively terrace on Torvet.
Torvets Kebab & Pizza
0.1 km
Central Silkeborg’s no‑nonsense stop for generous kebab, salad‑topped pizzas and quick, budget‑friendly meals just a short stroll from the main town square.
Cafe K Silkeborg
0.2 km
Silkeborg's vibrant casual dining hub where quality brunch, cocktails, and community converge.
Four Hands Restaurant
0.2 km
Intimate, chef-led dining in central Silkeborg where a daily changing set menu, seasonal Danish produce and warm hygge hospitality turn dinner into an evening-long experience.
Daruma Ramen
0.2 km
Cosy Japanese noodle bar on Søndergade in Silkeborg, serving comforting ramen and crisp chicken katsu in a simple, relaxed setting ideal for casual meals.
Asian Restaurant & Café
0.2 km
Cozy Southeast Asian flavors in the heart of Silkeborg, pairing Vietnamese and Thai dishes with a warm, relaxed atmosphere on lively pedestrian Søndergade.
Regatta Sandwich
0.2 km
Freshly baked Italian sandwiches in the heart of Silkeborg—quality ingredients, casual charm.
Hot Inn
0.2 km
Casual Middle Eastern–inspired comfort food, fresh from the charcoal grill, served in a simple, welcoming space on bustling Nygade in central Silkeborg.
BABBA
0.2 km
Mediterranean-inspired social dining, wine and cocktails in a cosy Silkeborg townhouse with a lively bar and atmospheric courtyard terrace.
Joci Sushi
0.2 km
Casual, central Silkeborg sushi spot with generous platters, warm purple-toned interiors and a strong takeaway culture on lively pedestrian Nygade.
Marco Polo - Silkeborg
0.3 km
Authentic Italian and Brazilian cuisine in cozy Silkeborg surroundings.
Gusto Silkeborg
0.3 km
Savor delicious sandwiches, pizzas, and salads at Gusto Silkeborg – your culinary stop in the heart of Denmark.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
b.young Silkeborg
0.0 km
A contemporary Danish womenswear boutique in central Silkeborg, offering accessible Scandinavian style, versatile outfits and relaxed, easy-going browsing.
Normal
0.0 km
Denmark's original discount retailer where treasure hunting meets affordability in quirky, welcoming surroundings.
TOFT SHOP
0.0 km
Curated menswear blending timeless elegance with contemporary style in Silkeborg's charming lake district.
Tenna Og Jens Kristian I/S
0.1 km
Family-run multibrand womenswear house in central Silkeborg, combining 400 m² of contemporary fashion, personal styling and Scandinavian labels on lively Vestergade.
Bustedwoman.com
0.1 km
Curated European fashion and personalized styling in Silkeborg's premier women's boutique.
Bivs.dk
0.1 km
Silkeborg's dedicated children's clothing and toy specialist with extended daily hours.
Femilet
0.1 km
Premium Scandinavian lingerie and intimate wear for women seeking comfort, quality, and perfect fit.
Buksecompagniet
0.1 km
Independent Silkeborg fashion store mixing timeless Scandinavian basics, denim and footwear with seasonal trends for both men and women on lively Søndergade.
Christoffersen Silkeborg A/S
0.1 km
Established jeweller on Silkeborg’s main square, blending classic gold and silver pieces, quality watches and attentive service in a calm, central setting.
H&M
0.1 km
Central Silkeborg fashion stop combining global H&M style with small-town convenience on the lively Torvet square.
Bog & idé - Silkeborg Vestergade
0.1 km
Silkeborg's beloved bookstore and stationery hub since 1930, offering books, office supplies, and gifts.
Helm
0.1 km
Two centuries of Danish leather heritage meets contemporary design in Silkeborg's premier bag and luggage destination.
DressLab
0.1 km
Scandinavian fashion curated for contemporary women in the heart of Silkeborg.
Companys Silkeborg
0.1 km
Modern Scandinavian womenswear in a calm, central Silkeborg boutique, ideal for curated wardrobe updates between café stops and city-center strolls.
Imerco
0.1 km
Central Silkeborg homeware hub for Danish design, practical kitchen gear and cosy hygge accents, ideal for gifts, souvenirs and everyday essentials.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Kaffebaren
0.2 km
Neighbourhood-style coffee bar on Vestergade in Silkeborg, pairing carefully made espresso drinks and iced coffees with a cosy, Scandinavian-inspired atmosphere.
Café Kling Klang
0.2 km
Intimate, candlelit bar-café on Silkeborg’s Søndergade, blending everyday hygge, music and drinks in a laid-back neighbourhood atmosphere.
Roxy Malt
0.2 km
Irish-inspired Silkeborg pub with live music, quizzes, speciality beers and a cosy courtyard, blending retro charm with late-night energy in the town centre.
The Admiral Pub
0.2 km
Classic Danish bodega bar in central Silkeborg, serving inexpensive drinks and everyday atmosphere from quiet daytime pints to late‑night weekend sessions.
Zwei Grosse Bier Bar
0.3 km
Alpine-inspired après-ski party bar with karaoke, beer pong, and group celebrations in central Silkeborg.
Butchers Silkeborg
0.3 km
Compact late-night bar and nightclub in central Silkeborg, serving high-energy music, simple drinks and a youthful party vibe on weekend nights.
Bifrost Sports Pub
0.3 km
Silkeborg's premier sports bar for live action, cold drinks, and vibrant nightlife.
The bar Silkeborg ApS
0.4 km
Intimate late-night bar on Nygade in central Silkeborg, mixing easygoing pub charm with nightclub energy from evening drinks to early-morning dancing.
Sportspubben Målet
0.4 km
A cozy, no-frills sports pub in central Silkeborg, where big screens, cold beer and local chatter turn every match day into a shared living room.
Rabalder Bar
0.4 km
Cozy living‑room bar in Silkeborg serving affordable drinks, sing‑along hits and late‑night party vibes in a compact, homey setting.
NO 21 -Tapas & vinbar i Silkeborg
0.4 km
Riverside tapas and wine bar with curated selections and panoramic river views in central Silkeborg.
Cafe' Paradis
0.5 km
A compact, old‑school bodega in central Silkeborg, serving cold beers, local atmosphere and late‑night conversation in an unpretentious, lived‑in bar setting.
Bodega Hjørnet
0.8 km
A cosy corner bodega in central Silkeborg, where dim lights, cold beer and easy conversation capture the timeless charm of Danish bar culture.
Bakkens bodega
0.9 km
Unpretentious beer hall on Århusvej where locals, cold drafts and simple pub fare create a slice of everyday Silkeborg life from late morning to late evening.
The Smoke Pub
0.9 km
A classic Silkeborg bodega on Borgergade, where smoke, cold beer and easy conversation create an unpretentious local living room from late morning to late night.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- 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
- Business Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
