Stork Fountain
Quick facts: This central fountain sits on a lively square in the heart of Copenhagen.
- Royal silver wedding anniversary gift from 1894.
- Its birds, confirmed as storks in 2008, sparked years of debate over their species.
- Newly graduated midwives celebrate here with a traditional dance, echoing the stork's baby symbolism.
The story behind...
Right in the heart of the city, on the bustling Amagertorv square, you'll find this lovely fountain. It was originally a gift to Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Louise for their silver wedding anniversary back in 1894.
The design shows three birds getting ready to fly off in different directions. For a long time, people argued about whether they were storks or herons. The artists even added little details like frogs and water plants you'd usually find near herons. But in 2008, the Danish Ornithological Society finally confirmed they are, in fact, storks.
The fountain has a wonderful tradition connected to it. Since the 1950s, newly graduated midwives come here to dance around the fountain to celebrate finishing their education. It makes perfect sense when you think about the old stories of storks delivering babies. It’s a joyful sight, and a real piece of local culture.
This spot is a natural meeting point for many, located on the main pedestrian street, Strøget and not far from Højbro Plads, which offers a great view towards Christiansborg Palace.
