King's New Square
Quick facts: This grand public square is a central hub in the capital city, surrounded by impressive historical buildings.
- Home to the Royal Danish Theatre and a grand equestrian statue.
- Transforms into a popular ice-skating rink in winter.
- A central starting point for shopping and exploring the historic city.
The story behind...
Kongens Nytorv, which translates to 'The King's New Square', was laid out in 1670 by King Christian V, who aimed to create a grand, open public space in the style of French city planning. It has been Copenhagen’s largest public square for centuries.
At its heart stands the equestrian statue of Christian V himself, unveiled in 1688. This makes it the oldest equestrian statue in Scandinavia. Originally cast in lead, it was later recast in bronze, ensuring its longevity as a central landmark.
Around the square, you'll find several historic buildings. For instance, **Charlottenborg Palace**, initially built as a royal residence, now houses the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts. Across from it, the magnificent **Royal Danish Theatre**, a neoclassical building from 1874, is where Denmark’s national opera, ballet, and drama performances take place. Then there's **Magasin du Nord**, a prominent department store housed in a building with a rich history, once a hotel and later a warehouse.
The circular flowerbed surrounding the statue is known as 'Krinsen'. For generations, it was a local tradition that when the first tree in the square would burst into leaf, students would gather to celebrate the arrival of spring here. While perhaps less boisterous now, it speaks to the square's long-standing role in city life.
