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Cisterns in Søndermarken: Copenhagen’s Subterranean Art Wonderland

Descend beneath Copenhagen and explore immersive contemporary art installations in the Cisterns’ atmospheric underground chambers, a unique fusion of history and creativity.

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Hidden beneath the lush grounds of Søndermarken Park, the Cisterns is a mesmerizing underground art space unlike any other in Denmark. Once a colossal water reservoir serving Copenhagen, today it hosts bold contemporary art exhibitions that interact with its dark, atmospheric chambers. Visitors descend into a world of shimmering reflections, echoing sounds, and evocative installations—an experience both immersive and hauntingly beautiful.

A brief summary to Superkilen Park

  • Nørrebrogade 210, Copenhagen, København N, 2200, 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

Local tips

  • Bring a warm layer—temperatures underground are noticeably cooler and damp even in summer.
  • Photography is allowed, but low-light conditions mean a good camera or steady hand is helpful.
  • Check for special evening openings, when exhibitions may feature additional lighting or performances.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through Søndermarken Park or the nearby Frederiksberg Gardens.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Copenhagen’s main transport hubs, frequent metro and S-train lines reach Frederiksberg in about 10–15 minutes. Disembark near Frederiksberg Gardens, a major local landmark. From here, it’s a short walk through tree-lined park lanes to the ornate gates of Søndermarken; the Cisterns’ entrance is integrated into the park hillside. A standard single-zone fare for adult tickets is typically DKK 24.

  • Walking

    For those already exploring central Frederiksberg, the Cisterns can be reached with a stroll through leafy boulevards and the adjacent Frederiksberg Gardens. The well-signed entrance sits at the edge of Søndermarken, close to the stately Frederiksberg Palace. Expect a 10–20 minute walk from main shopping or cultural areas.

  • Taxi

    Taxis from central Copenhagen or Frederiksberg are a quick and comfortable option, dropping visitors by the park’s prominent gates. The journey generally takes 10–15 minutes with fares averaging DKK 80–130, depending on traffic and pick-up point.

  • Driving/Parking

    Limited public parking is available around Søndermarken and Frederiksberg Gardens, especially in peak hours. Metered street parking is generally DKK 24–37 per hour. On busy days, arriving early or using public transport may avoid delays.

Unlock the Best of Superkilen Park

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Discover more about Superkilen Park

Deep below the tranquil lawns of Søndermarken Park lies one of Copenhagen’s most extraordinary cultural venues: the Cisterns. Originally constructed in 1856 as a vast subterranean reservoir to provide the city with fresh drinking water, the space remained in use for over a century before closing in the 1930s. Rather than fading into obscurity, this colossal underworld was reborn as an art destination, harnessing its natural dampness, cold air, and cathedral-like vaults to create a truly unique atmosphere for contemporary installations. What sets the Cisterns apart is its interplay between the raw, slightly eerie architecture and ever-changing exhibitions by internationally renowned artists. Rather than adapting art to suit a gallery, the space compels artists to adapt their work to its perpetual darkness, atmospheric pools of water, and echoing acoustics. Past works have included haunting light projections, soundscapes, floating sculptures, and performances designed to blur the line between visitor and environment. In the Cisterns, you may wander along damp walkways under dripping ceilings, the only illumination provided by curated installations shimmering off the reflecting pools. The journey begins with a descent from bright daylight into the cool subterranean air. The initial shock of darkness soon gives way to wonder—expect to spend at least an hour exploring the cavernous halls, often accompanied by the quiet footsteps of other visitors and the distant hum of city life above. Information panels explain the site’s fascinating history, while the current exhibition guides the narrative of your experience. Accessibility is considered, but some dampness and low lighting may be challenging for visitors with mobility or vision concerns. The Cisterns is open most days year-round, with extended opening hours one evening a week. Admission for adults is moderate, usually in the DKK 115 range, with discounts available for students and children. Combination tickets covering other Frederiksberg Museums are also offered.

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