The Cisterns: Subterranean Art Amid Søndermarken
A hauntingly beautiful subterranean art museum set beneath Frederiksberg’s Søndermarken park, where contemporary installations blend with echoes of Copenhagen’s historic waterworks.
Beneath the peaceful lawns of Frederiksberg’s Søndermarken park lies the Cisterns—a repurposed 19th-century water reservoir transformed into Copenhagen’s most atmospheric art venue. This subterranean marvel offers an immersive blend of damp echoes, dripping water, and cutting-edge contemporary art installations. The Cisterns’ fusion of melancholy history and inventive exhibition design makes it one of Denmark’s most intriguing cultural spaces.
A brief summary to The Lakes
- Copenhagen, Indre By, DK
Local tips
- Bring a light jacket even in summer—the underground chambers remain cool and damp year-round.
- Check which artist or installation is currently exhibited to enhance your experience—the entire space transforms annually.
- Photography is allowed but beware of moisture—protect cameras and phones accordingly.
- Accessible via paved paths but the underground area can be wet and slippery; wear non-slip shoes.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From central Zealand local hubs such as Copenhagen Central Station, frequent S-trains and metro lines provide direct access to Frederiksberg. From Frederiksberg’s major transit stops, city buses pass close to Søndermarken Park. The Cisterns are set within the park, only a short walk from stops frequently used by zoo visitors. Public transport fares within the Copenhagen urban area are typically 24–36 DKK for a single journey.
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Taxi
A taxi from central Copenhagen to the Cisterns in Frederiksberg is usually a 10–20 minute ride depending on traffic, with fares in the 120–180 DKK range. Taxis can drop passengers at the main park entrance, with the underground museum just a short stroll across the lawn.
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Walking
From Frederiksberg’s center and the palace gardens, it’s a pleasant stroll across the leafy Søndermarken Park. Look for signs to the Cisterns or aim for the distinctive glass pavilion above the underground chambers.
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Driving
Parking is available on nearby streets and along the park perimeter, but spaces can be scarce on weekends and holidays. Municipal parking fees typically apply, ranging from 16–22 DKK per hour.
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