Background

Cisternerne: Copenhagen's Subterranean Art Space

Explore Cisternerne: Copenhagen's underground art venue blending history and contemporary installations beneath Søndermarken Park.

4.4

Beneath the verdant expanse of Søndermarken Park in Frederiksberg lies Cisternerne, a former subterranean reservoir transformed into a unique contemporary art venue. This cavernous space, characterized by its cool, damp atmosphere and natural dripstone formations, offers visitors an immersive experience where art and environment converge.

A brief summary to Workers Museum

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-8 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Wear flat, sturdy shoes and bring a jacket, as the underground environment is cool and damp year-round.
  • Be prepared for dim lighting and uneven floors; proceed cautiously to fully enjoy the immersive experience.
  • Note that there are no restroom facilities inside; the nearest public toilets are about 200 meters away in Søndermarken Park.
  • Photography is allowed without flash or tripod; capture the unique ambiance but respect the art installations.
  • Check the official website for current exhibitions and opening hours before your visit, as they may vary seasonally.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Copenhagen's central area, take the M1 or M2 metro lines to Frederiksberg Station. From there, it's a pleasant 10–15-minute walk through the charming streets of Frederiksberg to reach Søndermarken Park, where Cisternerne is located. Alternatively, bus lines 9A and 350S have stops near the park entrance. A single bus ticket costs approximately 24 DKK.

  • Taxi

    A taxi ride from central Copenhagen to Cisternerne typically takes 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs around 150–200 DKK. Taxis can drop you off near the entrance to Søndermarken Park, opposite the Copenhagen Zoo.

  • Driving

    If driving, be aware that parking near Søndermarken Park is limited. Street parking is available but may be scarce, especially during peak hours. It's advisable to use public transportation or taxis to avoid parking difficulties.

Unlock the Best of Workers Museum

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Workers Museum

Cisternerne, nestled beneath the green lawns of Søndermarken Park in Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, is a remarkable subterranean space that seamlessly blends history, architecture, and contemporary art. Originally constructed between 1856 and 1859, this vast underground reservoir was designed to supply Copenhagen with clean drinking water, boasting a capacity of 16 million liters. By 1933, advancements in water supply rendered the cisterns obsolete, and they were eventually drained in 1981. In 1996, coinciding with Copenhagen's designation as the European City of Culture, Cisternerne was repurposed as an exhibition space. Today, it stands as Denmark's only dripstone cave, where natural stalactites and stalagmites have formed over decades due to water seepage through the concrete structure. This unique environment, with its high humidity and temperatures ranging between 8–16°C (47–61°F), provides an evocative backdrop for contemporary art installations. Each year, Cisternerne invites internationally acclaimed artists to create site-specific exhibitions that interact with its distinctive architecture and ambiance. For instance, in 2025, artist Jakob Kudsk Steensen's 'Psychosphere' transformed the space into a deep-sea-inspired realm, exploring the origins of life through immersive video projections, soundscapes, and sculptures. Visitors enter Cisternerne through two modern glass pyramids situated in Søndermarken Park, descending into a labyrinthine world of vaulted ceilings, granite walls, and dimly lit corridors spanning over 4,400 square meters. The absence of natural light and the presence of water features create an otherworldly atmosphere reminiscent of ancient catacombs or submerged cathedrals. Practical considerations for visitors include the lack of elevator access, making the site inaccessible to wheelchair users. The entrance involves descending a concrete staircase, and the interior features uneven floors with occasional puddles and metal grates over water surfaces. Due to the cool and damp conditions, it's advisable to wear flat, sturdy footwear and bring a jacket, even during warmer months. Notably, there are no restroom facilities within Cisternerne; the nearest public toilets are approximately 200 meters away in Søndermarken Park. Cisternerne operates seasonally from mid-March to November, with varying opening hours throughout the week. Admission fees are set at 120 DKK for adults, with discounts available for students and young visitors. Children under 18 enjoy free entry. Given the unique nature of the exhibitions and the atmospheric setting, a visit to Cisternerne offers a memorable and immersive cultural experience in the heart of Copenhagen.

Popular Experiences near Workers Museum

Popular Hotels near Workers Museum

Select Currency