Danish Forsorgshistorisk Museum (Danish Welfare History Museum)
A powerful museum inside the former Andersvænge institution, tracing Denmark’s stark history of disability care from segregation and control to rights and inclusion.
Set in the former Andersvænge institution on the edge of Slagelse, the Danish Forsorgshistorisk Museum explores the stark history of Denmark’s care system for people with intellectual disabilities. In the original kitchen and laundry buildings, immersive reconstructions, archival photos, objects and testimonies trace life inside one of the country’s largest “åndssvageanstalter” from the 1940s to the era of de‑institutionalisation. It is a compact, powerful museum that confronts a difficult past while also charting the long journey toward rights, respect and inclusion.
A brief summary to Danish Forsorgshistorisk Museum
- Rosenkildevej 59A, Slagelse, 4200, DK
- +4542714455
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Thursday 10 am-2 pm
- Sunday 1 pm-3 pm
Local tips
- Allow at least two hours: the museum is small but text‑heavy and emotionally dense, and the historical context benefits from unhurried reading and reflection.
- Bring a light sweater; parts of the old kitchen and laundry buildings can feel cool, especially outside the summer months.
- Consider pairing your visit with another Slagelse museum the same day for a broader view of local and national history.
- If travelling with children, prepare them in advance for difficult themes such as confinement and loss of rights, and be ready to discuss questions afterwards.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and local bus from central Slagelse
From Slagelse Station, frequent regional trains connect with the rest of Zealand. From the station area, local buses towards the eastern residential districts typically reach the Rosenkildevej area in about 10–15 minutes, followed by a short level walk. A single bus ticket within Slagelse usually costs around 24–30 DKK, and services run more often on weekdays than at weekends.
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City bus or walk from Slagelse town centre
If you are already in Slagelse’s compact centre, city buses serving the outskirts reduce the approach to roughly 10 minutes’ travel, using standard zone tickets in the 24–30 DKK range. Alternatively, you can walk from the pedestrian streets in about 25–35 minutes on pavements with gentle gradients, suitable for most visitors who are comfortable with a longer urban stroll.
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Car or taxi within Slagelse and surroundings
Arriving by car from within Slagelse or nearby villages typically takes 5–15 minutes depending on traffic. Street‑side parking is generally available in the surrounding residential area, though spaces can be busier on Thursday and Sunday opening times. A taxi from the station or town centre usually takes under 10 minutes and costs in the region of 80–140 DKK one way, depending on distance and waiting time.
Danish Forsorgshistorisk Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Danish Forsorgshistorisk Museum
From Andersvænge institution to historical museum
The Danish Forsorgshistorisk Museum occupies part of the former Andersvænge complex, once one of Denmark’s major institutions for people with intellectual disabilities. During the mid‑20th century, this self‑contained enclave on the outskirts of Slagelse housed several hundred residents under a regime that combined care, control and segregation from wider society. Today, the same red‑brick buildings host exhibitions that unpack how the welfare state treated those it labelled “åndssvage”, and how thinking has changed over time. Walking in, you are entering a site that was both home and workplace for residents and staff. The museum uses this setting very deliberately: original corridors, stairwells and rooms still echo with the institutional logic of order, surveillance and routine. Rather than smoothing away this atmosphere, the curators lean into it, using the architecture itself as an exhibit.Everyday life behind closed doors
Much of the museum is devoted to the textures of daily life at Andersvænge. Full‑scale reconstructions of dormitories show rows of narrow beds, simple lockers and the almost total lack of privacy that shaped residents’ lives. Nearby, a nurse’s room is carefully staged with uniforms, medicine cabinets and logbooks, evoking the routines of night checks and strict schedules. Other rooms recreate workshops and occupational spaces where residents were assessed for their ability to contribute to the institution’s self‑sufficiency. Tools, machines and agricultural implements tell a story of work that blurred the line between therapy, discipline and economic necessity. Through these details, the museum reveals how a welfare system could be both protective and deeply paternalistic.Dark chapters of control and coercion
Alongside everyday scenes, the museum addresses some of the most painful aspects of Denmark’s welfare history. Exhibits explore policies of internment, overcrowding and the long‑term segregation of people deemed unfit for ordinary life. The narrative connects Andersvænge to a national network of institutions, including remote island facilities for men and women, where control and confinement were central. Panels and objects also trace the history of coercive measures such as forced sterilisation and the legal framework that allowed the state to intervene so deeply in people’s bodies and choices. Rather than sensationalising these themes, the museum presents them in a sober, documentary style that invites reflection on how good intentions can slide into violations of basic rights.Voices, memories and changing perspectives
One of the museum’s most striking features is its focus on personal narratives. Audio recordings, written testimonies and photographs give space to former residents and staff to describe their own experiences of Andersvænge. Some recall warmth, celebrations and dedicated teachers; others emphasise fear, loneliness and a sense of being confined. Together, these accounts complicate any simple story of victims and authorities. The timeline of the exhibitions follows the broader shift from large institutions to smaller, community‑based homes. Policy documents, campaign material and media clippings show how language and attitudes changed, from talking about “care and custody” to discussing rights, autonomy and inclusion. The museum thus doubles as a crash course in disability history and in the evolution of the welfare state itself.A compact visit with a lasting emotional impact
Housed mainly in the old central kitchen and laundry buildings, the museum is relatively small in footprint, but dense with material. Around 20 themed displays mix objects, models, photos and film clips in a way that rewards slow, thoughtful exploration. Short captions and simple Danish make the content approachable, while the subject matter remains emotionally demanding. Visitors often find that what lingers is not a single exhibit, but the cumulative sense of how ordinary routines, institutional architecture and official policies intersected to shape real lives. The museum encourages quiet contemplation rather than spectacle, making it a powerful stop for anyone interested in social history, ethics or the ongoing discussion about how societies treat their most vulnerable members.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Vandtrappen
2.0 km
A small yet compelling ceramic water sculpture in Slagelse’s Rosengården, where stepped cascades and quiet sound turn an everyday square into a contemplative urban pause.
Rytterstatue af Christian IX
2.0 km
Bronze king on horseback surveys Slagelse from Schweizerpladsen—a citizen-honored tribute to Christian IX's enduring reign, sculpted with poised majesty.
Gammeltorv
2.1 km
Copenhagen's 12th-century heart: Renaissance fountain, Neoclassical facades, and Strøget buzz in one timeless square.
Mindesten for Hans Tausen
3.3 km
A modest granite stone in a quiet Slagelse green, marking the birthplace of Denmark’s Lutheran Reformation story at the former Antvorskov monastery.
Stendysse ved Blæsinge
5.2 km
A modest Neolithic stone tomb in the fields near Blæsinge, offering a quiet roadside glimpse into western Zealand’s Stone Age landscape and rituals.
Breddysse Stones
8.6 km
A modest Neolithic dolmen in the fields near Slagelse, where ancient burial stones, open skies, and quiet farmland meet in a quietly powerful landscape.
RAF Memorial Stone
9.2 km
Small rural monument, big wartime story: a quiet Danish field where seven RAF airmen are remembered with a single steadfast stone.
Træ-cirklerne ved Birkendegård
29.0 km
Subtle traces in the fields east of Kalundborg reveal a vast Neolithic ring monument, Denmark’s “Stonehenge”, encircling the hill of Overdrevsbakken.
Genforeningssten i Saltø Skov
30.3 km
A granite memorial stone marking Denmark's 1920 reunification with South Jutland, standing at a forest crossroads near Næstved.
Lerchenborg Gods
31.6 km
An impeccably symmetrical Baroque–Rococo manor near Kalundborg, where preserved architecture, parkland and quiet countryside evoke centuries of Danish noble life.
Visit Sydsjælland & Møn
33.0 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Sydsjælland & Møn, a unique Danish destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Næstved Station
33.1 km
Explore the evolution of Danish and international design at Copenhagen's historic Designmuseum Danmark.
Kalundborg St.
33.4 km
Experience the heart of Helsingborg at Sundstorget, a vibrant square blending history and modernity near the Northern Harbour.
Mindesmærke for Jørgen Manniche
33.6 km
A solemn memorial to an innocent young life lost in the final moments of WWII liberation.
Hans-Jørgen Færks Plads
33.6 km
Medieval market town square where Danish history, culture, and modern commerce converge in southern Zealand.
Unmissable attractions to see
Vægmaleri - VestsjællandsCentret
1.6 km
A splash of urban colour on the side of VestsjællandsCentret, this open-air mural adds creative flair to everyday shopping streets in the heart of Slagelse.
Slagelse Model Jernbane Klub
1.8 km
An attic above Slagelse Station where Danish railway history is reimagined in detailed 1:45 scale, run by passionate model train enthusiasts.
Vægmaleri
2.1 km
Experience the fusion of history and modern art at Slagelse's vibrant street mural by Peter Skensved.
Lystanlægget Slagelse
2.2 km
Historisk bypark med søer, blomsterbede og roligt hverdagsliv – et grønt åndehul med legeplads, stier og plads til picnic, lige ved centrum af Slagelse.
Genforeningssten i Slagelse
2.2 km
Diskret granitsten på en lille jordhøj i Slagelse, hvor genforeningen i 1920 er hugget i sten midt i et roligt, grønt anlæg.
Øen i søen
2.3 km
A tiny green island in a calm lake, Øen i søen offers an easy escape into water, sky and quiet lawns just a short stroll from everyday Slagelse life.
Slagelse Museum
2.4 km
Step into old Slagelse at this intimate town museum, where recreated shops, homes and changing exhibitions bring West Zealand’s everyday history vividly to life.
Restaurant Superbowl & Golfcenter Slagelse
2.5 km
Slagelse's premier entertainment complex blending bowling, golf, dining, and games for unforgettable family fun.
Amphiteater
2.7 km
A small open-air stage carved into the greenery of Slagelse, where local performances, picnics and quiet pauses share the same gently sloping grassy bowl.
Naturpark skovsø
2.7 km
Urban woodland and open grassland on Slagelse’s northeastern edge, Naturpark Skovsø is an easy, everyday escape into trees, paths and fresh air.
Soldatens Lod
3.0 km
Simple forest shelters, campfires and quiet clearings on the edge of Slagelse’s former military training grounds, ideal for low-key picnics and nights under the trees.
Antvorskov Klosterruin, Slagelse
3.4 km
Atmospheric monastery and castle ruins on Slagelse’s edge, where low stone walls, open grass and big skies trace the story of a powerful medieval order.
Cirkusland
3.8 km
A colourful circus village in Slagelse where live shows, gentle rides and playful tents turn Circus Arena’s home base into a relaxed, all-day playground for families.
Kong Slags Dysse
5.0 km
Experience Denmark's largest organic vineyard with award-winning wines and scenic tours in Karrebæksminde.
Trelleborg - Museum of the Viking Age
6.6 km
A thousand-year-old Viking ring fortress where Harald Bluetooth’s warriors, longhouses and legends still shape the windswept fields of West Zealand.
Essential places to dine
Shangrila Restaurant
1.3 km
Spacious Chinese buffet restaurant in Slagelse offering sushi, seafood, grilled dishes and familiar favourites in a relaxed, family-friendly setting on Nørre Ringgade.
MA TEO Madbar Slagelse
1.4 km
Neighbourhood Italian madbar in Slagelse serving Neapolitan pizza, antipasti and easygoing drinks in a relaxed, evening-only setting with dine-in and takeaway.
Country og Western House ApS
1.6 km
Experience authentic Danish flavors at Country og Western House ApS in Slagelse - a must-visit for food lovers.
Dansk Mad&Fest Service
1.7 km
Flexible Danish party venue in Slagelse offering hearty local cuisine, spacious banquet rooms and practical, all-in-one arrangements for private and corporate events.
Café Lux
1.7 km
Old-school café-bar in central Slagelse, blending early-morning coffees with late-night beers, chatter and a distinctly Danish “brunt værtshus” atmosphere.
D'let - Det Grønne Køkken Thai Take Away
1.8 km
Casual Thai buffet in VestsjællandsCentret where you fill your plate, pay by weight and enjoy a quick, flexible meal in the heart of Slagelse’s main mall.
Cafe Bella
1.9 km
Cosy courtyard café-restaurant in central Slagelse, serving hearty classics, pizzas and sweet treats in freshly renovated surroundings with inviting outdoor seating.
Stjerne Kebab
1.9 km
Casual kebab and grill on Slagelse’s main square, serving generous, no-frills plates and takeaway boxes to hungry locals and travelers in the heart of town.
Green Kitchen
1.9 km
Bright, casual Slagelse eatery centred on a generous salad bar, fresh sandwiches and hearty mains with strong vegetarian, vegan and gluten‑friendly options.
Kebab Palace
1.9 km
Central Slagelse grill bar for generous kebab, pizzas and fast, filling meals between errands, shopping or sightseeing on and around Rådhuspladsen.
Tatami Sushi v/Yun Chen
1.9 km
Casual, central and generously portioned, Tatami Sushi v/Yun Chen serves fresh rolls, nigiri and all‑you‑can‑eat menus that make Japanese dining easy in Slagelse.
Mexican Chipotle Steak
1.9 km
Casual Tex‑Mex and grilled steaks in the heart of Slagelse, serving hearty portions, smoky chipotle flavors and unfussy comfort in a relaxed, central setting.
RoastNBeef
1.9 km
Intimate Slagelse steakhouse serving generous cuts, rich sauces and classic sides in a warm, evening-only setting on central Jernbanegade.
Tony's Pizzeria
2.0 km
Cozy Italian pizzeria in central Slagelse, serving thin-crust pies, simple pastas and gluten-free options in a relaxed, neighborhood-style setting.
Ferdinands Bøfhus
2.0 km
Classic Danish steakhouse comfort in central Slagelse, serving generous Sashi steaks, burgers and hearty favourites in warm, candlelit surroundings.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
JACK & JONES
1.7 km
Contemporary menswear, from denim to suits, in a streamlined JACK & JONES store at the heart of Slagelse’s VestsjællandsCentret shopping mall.
Vestsjællandscentret
1.7 km
Modern, family-friendly shopping hub in the heart of Slagelse, mixing over 50 stores, cafés and services in a bright, weatherproof mall from 1969.
qUINT
1.7 km
Denmark's premier streetwear destination for trend-conscious men seeking curated fashion and sneaker culture.
Normal
1.7 km
Farverig discountbutik midt i Vestsjællandscentret med skønhed, hverdagsting, snacks og festpynt til lave priser – perfekt som hurtigt dagligstop eller spontant fundsted.
VILA
1.8 km
Contemporary women's fashion in the heart of Slagelse's central shopping district.
Tøjtilsmåfolk.dk
1.8 km
Colourful, character-filled children’s boutique in the heart of Slagelse, specialising in playful, practical clothes for babies and young kids in a cosy local setting.
Kvickly
1.8 km
Warehouse supermarket in Slagelse's premier shopping center with fresh produce, bakery, and extended weekday hours.
Glitter
1.8 km
A compact, colorful jewelry and accessories shop in Vestsjællandscentret, perfect for quick fashion fixes, affordable gifts and a touch of sparkle in central Slagelse.
Concept
1.8 km
Central Slagelse boutique for modern Scandinavian-inspired womenswear, shoes and accessories, ideal for a relaxed browse and a wearable Danish-style souvenir.
CHANGE Lingerie
1.8 km
Inclusive lingerie boutique celebrating diverse bodies and personal style in Slagelse's modern shopping heart.
Mens Shop
1.8 km
Contemporary menswear in Slagelse's premier shopping center with over 50 retailers and dining options.
Dissing
1.8 km
Contemporary clothing store in central Slagelse offering quality apparel and attentive service.
PIECES
1.8 km
Trendy women's clothing and accessories at budget prices in central Slagelse – mix, match, and express your style effortlessly.
Kop & Kande
1.8 km
Central Slagelse homeware and gift shop stocking Danish kitchen gear, tableware and decor, ideal for practical souvenirs and thoughtful presents all year round.
NIELSENs
1.9 km
Bright, modern clothing store in central Slagelse, bringing Scandinavian high-street style for women, men and children together in one convenient indoor stop.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cafe 23
1.9 km
Low‑key, old‑school brown bar in central Slagelse, serving inexpensive drinks and a slice of everyday Danish nightlife in a worn but welcoming setting.
The Red Rubin
1.9 km
Cozy, no‑nonsense neighborhood bar in central Slagelse, serving straightforward drinks and a relaxed local vibe from daytime until the early hours.
Cafe Viking.
2.0 km
Unpretentious local bar in central Slagelse, serving inexpensive drinks and everyday Danish pub atmosphere from midday into the late evening.
The Upper Hill
2.1 km
Cozy Irish-style pub in central Slagelse, serving generous pub dishes, broad beer and gin selections, live sports and music, plus outdoor tables on Fisketorvet.
Ibs Carport
2.1 km
Unpretentious late‑night bar in central Slagelse, serving generous budget‑friendly drinks and billiards in a compact, sociable setting open on weekend nights only.
WOODY - Sport
2.1 km
Slagelse's premier weekend sports bar for craft beer, gin, and late-night social entertainment.
The Old Pub
2.1 km
Lively Irish-style pub on Slagelse’s Fisketorvet, mixing late-night live music, casual drinks and dance-floor energy from Thursday to Saturday.
Café Sepps
2.1 km
Laid-back, smoky student bar in central Slagelse with cheap drinks, alternative music, live jam nights and a relaxed, come-as-you-are neighborhood atmosphere.
Rosen Bodega
2.1 km
Unpretentious neighborhood bodega in central Slagelse, pouring inexpensive drinks and local character in a relaxed, lived-in bar setting.
Teater Cafe'en
2.1 km
Cosy neighbourhood bar in central Slagelse, blending café calm by day with a sociable, theatre-tinged bar atmosphere late into the weekend nights.
Gecco Bar & Natklub
2.2 km
Slagelse's premier late-night cocktail bar and nightclub, serving craft drinks until dawn.
Slagelse Jazzklub
3.1 km
Intimate jazz evenings in a historic high school setting, where shared meals, swing bands and local community keep Western Zealand’s live jazz tradition thriving.
Delfinen Bodega
31.6 km
Unpolished village pub in rural Eskebjerg, where cold beers, card games, and casual conversation capture the essence of classic Danish bodega culture.
Sluk Efter
32.5 km
Unpretentious local pub on Kindhestegade in central Næstved, pouring cold beers and simple drinks in a cozy, social setting from midday to late night.
Humle Ølbar
32.5 km
Cosy craft beer bar in central Næstved, pairing a rotating selection of Danish and international brews with intimate, hygge‑rich surroundings.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
- Mindfulness
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly
