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The Seal Woman (Kópakonan) Statue

A bronze statue in Mikladalur, Faroe Islands, honoring the captivating legend of the Seal Woman and offering breathtaking coastal views.

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The Kópakonan statue, located in Mikladalur on Kalsoy Island, is a striking bronze sculpture depicting a seal woman, a figure from Faroese folklore. It stands as a tribute to the legend of a woman trapped on land after a fisherman steals her seal skin, marrying him and bearing children before eventually returning to the sea. The statue offers visitors a chance to connect with Faroese myths and enjoy panoramic coastal views.

A brief summary to The Seal Woman (Kópakonan)

  • 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

  • Wear sturdy shoes as the path to the statue can be steep and slippery, especially in wet weather.
  • Check the ferry schedule to Kalsoy Island in advance, as departures are limited.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the statue, the coastline, and the neighboring island of Kunoy.
  • Learn the legend of the Seal Woman before visiting to fully appreciate the statue's significance.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Kópakonan statue using public transport, start by taking the ferry from Klaksvík to Syðradalur on Kalsoy Island. From Syðradalur, take bus 506 towards Mikladalur. The bus journey offers scenic views of the island. Upon arrival in Mikladalur, walk towards the village center, following signs for the Kópakonan statue. The statue is located on the shoreline and is accessible via a set of stairs. A multi-day travel card for bus and ferry travel costs DKK 500 for four days.

  • Driving

    To reach the Kópakonan statue by car, take the ferry from Klaksvík to Syðradalur on Kalsoy Island. Once on Kalsoy, follow the road north towards Mikladalur. The drive includes passage through three single-lane tunnels with lay-bys. Upon arrival in Mikladalur, follow signs to designated parking areas. Parking is available near the gospel hall Malta or in larger parking lots in the village. From the parking area, walk towards the village center and follow signs to the Kópakonan statue, located on the shoreline. Ferry fares vary, and it is advisable to check the current schedule and prices.

  • Walking

    Once in Mikladalur, the Kópakonan statue is easily accessible by foot. From the village center, follow the signs leading towards the shoreline. The walk involves descending a set of stairs that lead to the statue. The path offers scenic views of the statue and the surrounding coastline. The walk from the village center to the statue is short, taking approximately 5-10 minutes.

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Discover more about The Seal Woman (Kópakonan)

The Seal Woman, or Kópakonan, is one of the best-known folktales in the Faroe Islands. The legend tells of seals who were once humans that chose to die in the ocean. Once a year, on the Twelfth Night of Christmas, these seals are allowed to come ashore, shed their skins, and regain their human form to sing, dance, and celebrate. The statue itself is a 2.6-meter-tall bronze sculpture created by artist Hans Pauli Olsen, erected in 2014. It portrays a woman emerging from her seal skin, gazing out towards the sea. The statue is positioned on the rocky shoreline, with the dramatic cliffs and ocean as a backdrop, enhancing the emotional impact of the legend. Visitors can walk down a set of stairs from the village to reach the statue, offering stunning views of the statue and the nearby Kunoy Island. The Kópakonan statue not only commemorates the legend but also serves as a reminder of the close relationship between the Faroese people and the sea. It has become a significant cultural landmark and a popular attraction for tourists interested in Faroese folklore and art. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon to witness the stunning coastal views and the changing light.

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