Ivan Evigvår – Thomas Dambo's Giant Woodland Troll
Hunt for a gentle giant hidden deep in Denmark's enchanted forest—a whimsical woodland sculpture born from community votes and recycled dreams.
A Troll Born from Community and Creativity
Ivan Evigvår emerged during the Great Troll Folk Festival in 2020, a project conceived during the Covid-19 pandemic to bring joy and wonder to communities. This remarkable wooden sculpture was initially installed at Sydhavnen in Copenhagen, where it captured hearts and imaginations. When urban redevelopment threatened Ivan's home in 2022, artist Thomas Dambo launched a nationwide competition inviting Danish towns to vote for where the troll should relocate. Mariager won decisively with over 51,000 votes, securing Ivan's new permanent residence in this charming Jutland town.The Gentle Giant of Munkholm Forest
Ivan Evigvår stands as an imposing yet approachable presence within the serene Munkholm Anlægget woodland. At 3.5 meters high and 2 meters wide, he commands attention, yet his warm, benevolent expression immediately dispels any troll-related fears. Unlike the menacing trolls of folklore, Ivan radiates kindness and gentleness. His distinctive features—particularly his characteristically large nose—have become beloved details that visitors find endearing. Constructed entirely from recycled and reclaimed materials, Ivan embodies Thomas Dambo's philosophy of transforming waste into monumental art that celebrates sustainability and environmental consciousness.Part of a Global Artistic Movement
Ivan Evigvår belongs to Thomas Dambo's internationally acclaimed troll series, a collection of giant wooden sculptures scattered across Denmark and beyond. Each troll possesses its own personality, backstory, and artistic significance. Dambo's work has garnered worldwide recognition for combining environmental responsibility with imaginative public art. The trolls serve as hidden gems encouraging exploration, adventure, and connection with nature. Ivan's placement in Mariager represents Denmark's commitment to celebrating contemporary art within natural landscapes, making the country a destination for those seeking unconventional cultural experiences.The Quest Through Forest and Stone
Located deep within Munkholm Anlægget, Ivan rewards those who venture into the woodland seeking him. The journey begins near Rosenhaven, where visitors follow forest paths into the quiet depths of the ancient stone ruins and natural surroundings. This deliberate concealment transforms a simple visit into a genuine troll hunt—an adventure that engages both children and adults. The surrounding landscape, with its historical significance and natural beauty, enhances the sense of discovery. Many visitors extend their experience by walking the Mariager Rundt hiking route, which connects Ivan's location to broader explorations of the region's cultural and natural heritage.A Beacon for Art and Nature Enthusiasts
Ivan Evigvår has become a pilgrimage site for those passionate about sustainable art, outdoor experiences, and Denmark's hidden cultural treasures. The troll attracts families seeking memorable adventures beyond conventional tourism, photographers documenting contemporary public art, and nature lovers who appreciate art integrated respectfully into woodland settings. Thomas Dambo provides a digital treasure map on his website, allowing visitors to locate not only Ivan but all his trolls worldwide, transforming the search into an interactive global art experience. Ivan's presence in Mariager has revitalized interest in the town as a destination for creative and unconventional tourism.Local tips
- Start your troll hunt at Rosenhaven and follow the forest paths into Munkholm Anlægget—the journey is part of the adventure, and Ivan rewards those who explore deeper into the woodland.
- Visit Thomas Dambo's official website to access his interactive troll map with location clues and details about all his sculptures worldwide—it transforms the search into a global art treasure hunt.
- Combine your visit with the Mariager Rundt hiking route to experience Ivan within the broader context of the region's natural beauty and historical sites.
- Bring a camera to capture Ivan's distinctive features and warm expression—the woodland setting provides excellent natural lighting for photography throughout the day.
- Visit during mild weather months (May through September) when forest paths are most accessible and the woodland atmosphere is most enchanting.
A brief summary to Ivan Evigvår trold
- Munkholmanlægget, Klostergade 15, Mariager, 9550, DK
- Visit website
- 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
Getting There
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Car
Drive to Munkholmanlægget, Klostergade 15, 9550 Mariager. Parking is available near the entrance. From central Mariager, the location is approximately 2 kilometers away, requiring 5–10 minutes of driving. Follow local signage toward Rosenhaven and Munkholm Anlægget. No entrance fee is required.
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Walking from Rosenhaven
From Rosenhaven in central Mariager, walk into Munkholm Anlægget forest following the marked paths. The walk takes approximately 15–25 minutes depending on route and pace. Terrain is woodland paths with some uneven ground and tree roots; comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The route is accessible year-round but most pleasant during dry seasons.
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Hiking Route Integration
Incorporate Ivan's location into the Mariager Rundt hiking route, a longer circular walk that connects multiple points of interest around Mariager. This extended experience takes 2–4 hours depending on pace and stops. The route is well-marked and suitable for families with moderate fitness levels.
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Local Bus Service
Regional bus services connect Mariager to surrounding towns. Journey times vary by origin (typically 30–90 minutes from larger cities). Check local transport schedules for current routes and timetables. From the bus station in Mariager, walk or cycle to Munkholm Anlægget (approximately 2 kilometers, 20–30 minutes on foot).
