Denmark: Cultural jewel full of art, design and unique charm

The small and quiet land of Denmark is located in northern Europe, surrounded by ancient mountains and the forests of Scandinavia.

Kingdom of Denmark extends over Greenland and the Faroe Islands. It is the southernmost representative of the Nordic countries and part of a peninsula with almost 400 islands in the North and Baltic Sea, of which only 70 are inhabited.

Interestingly, only Germany borders on the land path on Denmark. The other neighbors of the country are Norway on the opposite side of the sea and Sweden in the north.

The variety of culture in Denmark is shaped by regional traditions and differences, which are based on the legacy, art , food and the national language of the Vikings . The country's name means "borderland of the Danes" and it is known for its high quality of life and low corruption.

Denmark is a cultural paradise full of art and charm that is only a short drive from Germany. The country offers a wealth of activities, from exploring the fascinating cities such as Copenhagen to relaxing on the beautiful beaches on the North Sea and the Baltic Sea.

Holiday homes are easy to find and offer a great way to experience Danish life. In addition, Denmark is also known for his islands, Greenland, his dog -friendly culture and its rich history as part of the European continent.

often at the top of global surveys on quality of life and happiness

How can a small country with mixed weather be such a wonderful place to life? "

In this article, we devote ourselves to detailed information and descriptions of the fascinating culture, the rich art and the customs and traditions of this unique country.

Denmark - the cultural paradise in northern Europe

Denmark is a cultural paradise in northern Europe, which attracts many visitors from Germany and the whole world. The country has a rich story that is in its culture against mirrors t.

Danish art from the old masters to modern avant -garde, architectural masterpieces and charming cities offer visitor an insight into Danish culture .

The North and Baltic Sea with its islands invite you to a relaxing holiday on the beach, while Greenland offers untouched nature experiences.

But the culinary legacy of Denmark with its specialties such as Smørrebrød and Frikadeller is also not to be scoffed at.

All of this makes Denmark a perfect travel destination for every taste.

The basic pillar of Danish society: trust, community and the Danish welfare state

Denmark is characterized by an extraordinarily high level of social trust . The population trusts each other as well as institutions such as the government, the royal family, the hospitals and the police.

Trust also plays an important role in the business environment. It is generally assumed that people are honest as long as the opposite is not proven.

The pronounced social trust in Denmark plays an important role in the financing of extensive social programs, which means that the citizens of the country are among the highest tax payers worldwide.

The Danish health care is financed by tax money and is accessible free of charge for patients. Schools and universities are also financed from public funds and do not collect any tuition fees.

The concept behind it is based on the principle that each individual contributes to the community and in return supported by the community in order to be able to take care of all members.

These values ​​of trust and community are deeply anchored in Danish culture and society and have their roots in Danish history.

Culture, customs and traditions of the Danish country - a few key data

Population

Denmark has a population of 5.8 million people, which is 0.07% of the world's population. The population does not take into account Greenland and the Faroe Islands. Compared to other countries, the population of Denmark has increased steadily. Copenhagen is the largest city with over 1.1 million inhabitants, followed by Århus with 237,551 and Odense with 145,931 inhabitants.

Overall, Denmark presents itself as a country with a growing population and a rich historical culture.

Languages

Danish is a North Germanic language that is spoken of around six million people in Denmark, the Faroe Islands and Greenland as well as in small communities worldwide.

During the Viking Age , it was communicated in old Norse what a forerunner of today's Danish language is.

Religion and faith

Christianity % of the population who practice the Evangelical Lutheran. Faith focuses on good works, grace and faith as a means of redemption.

Traditional churches can be found everywhere in the country and underline the influence of Christianity on Denmark's culture. Since Islam is the largest non -Christian religion in Denmark, there are over a hundred mosques across the country, two of which offer common prayers for Muslims in Copenhagen.

Family life

Denmark is considered one of the most family -friendly countries in the world due to state support in childcare, education and health care. The cultural values ​​of the country are social trust, networked community and "hygge" , which means very simplified something like cosiness and satisfaction.

Most families are small and the core family is the focus of the social structure. Children are brought up early for independence and often looked after in daycare centers from the first year of life. Many Danish couples live together without getting married before starting a family.

Overall, a positive picture of Denmark is shown as a place with a strong focus on families and community.

Culinary

In recent decades, Danish cuisine has developed into a new trend known as New Nordic Cuisine . This trend is characterized by the use of local and seasonal ingredients and is very popular at home and abroad.

Traditional Danish dishes such as Smørrebrød (sandwiches, consisting of rye bread with fish, potatoes, eggs or meat) and stalls flæsk (fried pork pieces, served with potatoes and parsley sauce) are reinvented to address modern guests. One of the main initiators of this trend was chef Claus Meyer , who today has a restaurant chain in Denmark and a Danish grocery store at the Grand Central Station in New York.

The Danish cuisine now has 28 restaurants with a total of 39 Michelin stars-more than any other Nordic country.

Fashion and fashion

The Danish fashion is known worldwide for its high quality and minimalist look. Due to the growing awareness of the Copenhagen Fashion Week, the style develops.

Many designers and brands focus on simple, clear and minimalist styles, but sustainability and ethical processes are also an important factor for aspiring fashion brands.

Organic Basics produces underwear from technically advanced textiles while Aiayu works for Zero Waste.

In summary, it can be said that the Danish fashion is not only stylish, but is also produced environmentally conscious and ethically responsible.

Art and architecture

Thanks to its rich cultural history, Denmark is blessed with a wealth of centuries -old works of art and artifacts that were inspired by Vikings, churches, castles and fortresses.

The medieval paintings mainly come from the wall paintings of the churches and can be found in 600 churches across the country. This collection represents the largest survival of church wall paintings worldwide.

The origins of Danish architecture go back to the Viking Age, as archaeological finds. In the Middle Ages, an architecture developed through Romanesque and Gothic churches as well as magnificent cathedrals and castles across the country.

In modernity, the Danish architecture experienced a real upswing and enjoys global popularity.

Contemporary architecture focuses on natural light, relies on natural materials as well as sustainable energy efficiency and comfort.

When it comes to literature , Denmark is known for his most famous storyteller: Hans Christian Andersen was born in Odense in 1805. His most popular stories include "the ugly duckling" , "The Snow Queen" , "Däumelinchen" as well as the little mermaid - whose statue can be admired at the port of Copenhagen.

The diverse culture and art of Denmark - a foray

The timeless attraction of the Nordic style culture is very popular these days. Denmark is widely known for its rich cultural tradition and lively art scene in which old customs encounter modern creativity.

From the cobblestone streets from Copenhagen to the picturesque coastal cities, Denmark consists of a network of history, tradition and artistic creativity .

It is undoubtedly a country with a wide range of artistic expression. In Denmark, art does not only take place in galleries. The country's open -air museums and public places are decorated with impressive sculptures and thoughtful installations that combine nature and art seamlessly.

Make a long walk through the charming cities and villages of Denmark on a Denmark vacation, where historical buildings against mirrors n.

Traditional Danish handicrafts

The Viking era, which lasted from 8th to the 11th century, played a crucial role in the development of Denmark's early artistic traditions. The Vikings were skillful craftsmen and known for their artistic metal processing, wood carving and textile production.

These skills laid the foundation for the rich legacy of the Danish handicrafts, which continues to this day.

Traditional craftsmanship such as pots, weaving and woodwork will continue to be practiced and celebrated. Experienced artisans manufacture each piece in painstaking Handmade with special care for every little detail.

A remarkable example of this is Rønne on Bornholm - a place famous for its unique ceramics with living colors and unusual designs.

of Tønder has now made a name for itself through the production of special woven fabrics called Tønder-Spitze . Experienced weavers create delicate top patterns according to traditional templates here.

Woodwork is also deeply rooted in Danish culture: the furniture craft unites aesthetics and functionality in a masterly way. The Danish furniture design is characterized by clear lines, functionality and timeless elegance - which means that the iconic Danish chair with its slim and minimalist design has become a symbol of the Danish design

Danish cultural festivals and events

Denmark is proud of his rich cultural heritage and celebrates this with a wealth of festivals and events. These meetings bring people together to get to know Danish traditions, arts and kitchen and thus create a lively network of cultural experiences .

cultural night in Copenhagen is particularly expected , in which the pulsating art scene of the city is presented. Every year, visitors have the opportunity to explore museums, galleries and other cultural institutions until late at night.

The whole city awakens through impressive art installations, captivating performances and interactive exhibitions. This offers a unique opportunity to experience Danish culture

Contemporary Danish art scene

The contemporary art scene in Denmark is alive and dynamic, it extends the borders of artistic expression.

Copenhagen in particular has developed into a center for modern art, since both established and aspiring artists present their works in numerous galleries and art rooms. The Danish capital is home to the renowned Louisiana Museum of Modern Art , which is just outside the city.

This first -class museum is world famous for its impressive collection of modern and contemporary works of art from various media and styles. The breathtaking location of the museum on the water contributes to the overall experience and creates a unique connection between art and nature for visitors.

Aarhus , Denmark's second largest city, is also known for its flourishing art scene. The art museum Aros Aarhus represents diversity and innovation in the field of contemporary Danish art.

A striking installation by Olafur Eliasson called "Your Rainbow Panorama" offers visitors a fascinating all -round view of the city by a circular sidewalk surrounded by colorful glass panes. This fusion of art, architecture and urban landscape embodies the spirit of the current Danish art scene completely new.

Cultural attractions in Denmark

Denmark is a country full of cultural sights that present the rich history and the artistic legacy of the country.

From modern museums to historical castles, there is something to discover for every visitor. One of the landmarks of Denmark is Kronborg Castle in Helsingør , which belongs to the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Renaissance lock impresses with a striking design, a central courtyard, towers and artistically designed rooms and defense walls. The splendor and the eventful history make the castle popular with both tourists and those interested in history.

It also serves as the setting for Shakespeare's famous piece "Hamlet" , which adds additional intrigue and fascination.

Danish design, sculpture and architecture

In Denmark, great importance is placed on simplicity and practicality, paired with strong dedication to quality and craftsmanship. The country is known for its fascinating architecture, which is characterized by irregular floor plans, open interiors, flat roofs and glass facades.

A certain architectural style in Denmark is the Scandinavian style , in which the house is made entirely of pine wood and offers a natural wooden surface both inside and outside.

The Danish architecture is characterized by functionality, simplicity and aesthetics. An example of this are the famous houses of the Danish architect and designer Arne Jacobsen , such as the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel in Copenhagen or the chair “Das egg” (EGG Chair) , which became known worldwide and became a timeless design icon.

Another architectural highlight Denmark is the opera house in Copenhagen. The modern building was designed by the renowned architect Henning Larsen and impresses with its unique shape and its breathtaking view of the harbor.

Denmark also has a lot to offer in the field of sculpture. The sculptures of Bertel Thorvaldsen are among the most important works of this art form in Europe. He is considered the most important representative of Danish classicism .

His statues decorate numerous places and museums in both Denmark and internationally.

In addition, there are a variety of art museums across the country, including the NY Carlsberg Glyptoteket and the National Gallery SMK - both are also located in Copenhagen - as well as the Aarhus Art Museum, which .

This museum landscape offers visitors an extensive overview of various eras and styles of art history and contemporary art scene.

Literature and poetry

The Danish literary tradition is characterized by epic sagas and medieval folk songs. It also includes significant personalities such as the renowned playwright Ludvig Holberg (1684–1754), the romantic poet Adam Oehlenschläger (1779–1850) as well as in the 19th century Hans Christian Andersen (1805–75) and the famous Danish philosopher Søren Kierkegaard (1813-55).

To date, Andersen is still considered the most read writer from Denmark. His children's fairy tales, including "the ugly duckling" , "the emperor new clothes" and "the princess on the pea" , have brought him worldwide celebrity and continue to serve as inspiration for theater performances, ballet staging, films and visual works of art - they are an integral part of our good night story culture.

Karen Blixen , who acted under the pseudonym Isak Dinesen received worldwide recognition for her memories from 1937 about her time in Kenya.

adapted as the Hollywood film "Beyond Africa" The Danish philosopher Søren Kierkegaard, known as the father of existentialism , wrote his works during the first half of the 19th century.

His writings only gained importance in the middle of the 20th century through translations into German and English.

Peter Høeg is currently Denmark's most prominent author. His most famous work is the elegant and gripping literature thriller "Miss Smillas Feeling for Snow" (1992), which begins in Copenhagen and finally unfolds in the icy waters of Greenland.

Theater and dance

The venerable Det Kongelige Teater (Royal Theater) in Copenhagen, which was founded in 1748, kept its old stage and continues to present plays.

However, it was replaced by an impressive futuristic playhouse on the water, which was opened in 2008.

The city's art scene has also gained growth in recent years: a specially built opera house called Operaen is home to the renowned Royal Danish opera and the new DR conservator offers the Royal Danish orchestra a stage for appearances.

Royal Danish ballet, founded 150 years ago, is one of the most influential dance companies worldwide.

It attracted famous masters like August Bournonville (1805-79), who is considered the creator of today's "classic ballet" and choreographed more than 50 productions-including the popular piece "La Sylphide" .

Cinema and television

Denmark's oldest still existing film company, the Nordisk Film Compagni , was founded in 1906. The career of Carl Theodor Dreyer (1889-1968), which made one of the most influential films of all time, also began here: "The Passion of Jeanne d'Arc" (1928).

Although Dreyer believed that his masterpiece had been destroyed by a fire, the original was rediscovered in 1981 in a Norwegian nervous attitude. Nowadays, the state -funded Danish film institute is the heart of a lively Danish film industry.

Three films from Denmark won the Oscar for the best foreign film : Babette's Feast (1986), Pelle The Conqueror (1987) and in a Better World (2010). Directed by Susanne Bier.

Other Danish films have also found internationally recognition, such as Lars from Trier's "Dancer in the Dark" and Thomas Vinterberg's "The Celebration" . Together with Kristian Levring, signatories of Dogma 95 Manifest . This manifesto stipulates that films should be made on site without artificial light or sound with hand cameras - a personal challenge to revive the art of filmmaking.

Music and pop culture

Last but not least, on a trip to Denmark, you shouldn't forget that music plays an important role: from classical music to the more modern pop genre, many well-known musicians have their roots in the country of Hans Christian Andersens.

These include the conductor Thomas Dausgaard , the singer, songwriter and pianist Agnes Obel and of course the band Aqua with her world hit "Barbie Girl" .

Overall, Denmark offers a wide range of cultural attractions for every taste. There is a lot to discover and experience from art to architecture to music. The country is proud of its rich cultural history and its modern artistic work and invites visitors to participate.

What is the secret behind the flowering art and cultural landscape of Denmark?

Even in an era of austerity measures, the Danes performed better than most other European countries in promoting the arts.

Why do the Danes do so much better than we do?

The deceased, highly respected Poul Borum , a well -known Danish poet and critic, once said:

Art is for everyone, but many are not aware of that. "

The Danes have developed a lead in the area of ​​filmmaking , architecture , sculpture and design - despite their modest size and population. This was made possible by their outstanding support for art .

The role of Queen Margrethe II and the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts

Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts promotes cultural support and international exchange of visual artists, musicians, writers and other artists (e.g. with Greece). A reason for this cultural cooperation is undoubtedly also Queen Margrethe II of Denmark .

She is passionate about art and is an enthusiastic painter and sculptor herself. In addition to weekly private lessons in the arts, she organizes exhibitions of her works and even sells them online at auctions.

She also designs theater costumes, stage sets and even bishops. Under the pseudonym "Ingahild Grathmer" she also made illustrations for Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings" . Her translation by Simone de Beauvoir's work "All people are mortal" into Danish, which she published together with Prince Henrik under the name "Hmvejerbjerg" .

During the Queen of State, Danish art and design are always promoted ”,

Trine Villemann , author of the bestseller biography of the Danish royal family "1015 København K" over 10 years ago .

Innovation and design in Danish DNA

The Danes are characterized by their upbringing to question authorities what makes them strong innovators.

In various areas such as design, environmental sciences, pharmacy, biomedicine and technology, this small country continuously develops revolutionary approaches. From an early age, the Danes learn to question common opinions and are encouraged to find better alternatives.

This makes innovation and entrepreneurs to an integral part of Danish identity. An economic system that promotes entrepreneurial risk and offers social security.

In all global rankings of the most creative and innovative countries in the world, the little Denmark always finds one way to be among the most creative.

On the latest list, the "Global Innovation Index 2019" , which was created by the WIPO (World Organization for Mental Property) , Denmark takes up its place in the top 10 most innovative countries in the world.

The size of the country plays an important role , because Denmark is like a creative toolbox in which ideas thrive and brought to life. The limited domestic demand forces Danish entrepreneurs to think globally

Technology enables Denmark to spread its stories worldwide. The story of stories ( storytelling ) is part of the tradition in Denmark and originates in the fairy tales of Hans Christian Andersen. Now new entrepreneurs will continue to carry this Danish legacy to the next generation. Due to the digital development, the limitation of storytelling disappears and not only enables creative and entrepreneurs in Denmark to tell stories, but also to become part of it.

Danish design has set an international standard since the 1950s and industries such as healthcare and pharmaceutical industry play an important role in the Danish economy with constant further development. Nowadays, Danish innovators live in the field of sustainability and environmentally friendly life .

Danish design has become known worldwide for its clear lines and sophisticated aesthetics. In the 1940s 1950s it became popular because the light and minimalist style of Danish furniture fit well with the straightforward forms of the new international style architecture.

Chairs, lamps, silverware, glass objects and textiles from Denmark were quickly asked for design lovers around the world. Many of these classic examples of the Danish design, which has now been considered art are sold today for several thousand dollars at auctions.

But the Danish design is constantly developing: Nowadays, beautiful Danish pieces of furniture as well as jewelry and other design objects are available in all price ranges.

Copenhagen - Cultural Center in Denmark

Copenhagen is undisputedly the cultural center of Denmark and a mecca for design lovers. This lively city is famous for its innovative design and its modern art scene.

design

Renowned Scandinavian brands such as Hay and Muuto born here. A tour through this European metropolis leads you through the rich design heritage of the city, from well-known landmarks to less well-known plastics such as the Design Museum Danmark , the Arken Museum of Modern Art and the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art .

The Danish Design Center (DDC) is an innovative center that celebrates Danish design and innovation. The DDC has made a name for itself through its exciting exhibitions, which present contemporary design trends and address global challenges from the point of view of the design.

But the DDC goes beyond the role of a conventional museum - it also acts as a knowledge center and promotes dialogue about the importance of design in business and society. If you immerse yourself in the DDC in the fascinating world of Danish design, you will receive unique insights into how design influences our lives.

the floor projects in Copenhagen is essential for all those who are interested in the melting pot in which art, design and architecture meet

This advanced design gallery is characterized by its strong commitment and presents interdisciplinary works that make the traditional limits of the design classifications blur. Through a variety of artists and designers, floor projects takes on experimental and conceptual ideas and thus rises to a living center of innovative design thinking.

The gallery always sets new standards through inspiring exhibitions, which question conventional views of design and illuminate its role within contemporary culture.

A visit to the floor projects goes beyond the mere viewing of objects; It is about dealing with dynamic ideas in the field of design and experiencing captivating stories - a stimulating experience for both lovers of art and design.

If you are a design enthusiast and linger in Copenhagen, you should definitely visit the two most important design events in the city: 3 Days of Design and Design Week Copenhagen . These events attract experts and enthusiasts from all over the world and offer a comprehensive exploration of the Danish design with new innovative concepts, classics and avant -garde ideas.

Design Week Copenhagen is a lively celebration of Danish and international design, often with a focus on sustainability and social design. These two events offer a unique opportunity to experience the wealth of the Danish design culture and to network with creative people from all over the world in the lively surroundings of Copenhagen.

More highlights for design enthusiasts:

• Design museum Danmark
• Normann Copenhagen
• Hay House
• Muuto HQ
• Space Copenhagen
• Still life
• Designer zoo

architecture

The Danish Architecture Center (DAC) in Copenhagen is an absolute must for everyone who is passionate about design, architecture and urban life. It is located in the innovative Blox building on the city of the city and offers a fascinating journey through the world of architecture and design.

The center presents both historical retrospectives and contemporary progress in a wide range of exhibitions. Here visitors can deepen their knowledge of the past and presence of Danish architecture and take a look at future projects.

In addition to the exhibitions, the center also offers a variety of activities such as city tours and workshops, which makes it an exciting place for people of all ages. The roof terrace also impresses with a breathtaking panoramic view of the city.

Other architectural delicacies:

• The VM Houses
• Axel Towers
• 8 House / Big House
• The Rundaarn

Fine arts

The Statens Museum for Art in Denmark, also known as the country's National Gallery , is the largest art museum across the country. It houses an impressive collection of national and international art from the past seven centuries.

Visitors will be fascinated by a variety of works that include classic masterpieces and modern art and thus offer an extensive overview of various artistic styles and their development. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum regularly organizes exciting exhibitions of contemporary art, which present new and innovative perspectives.

In addition to all of this, the museum captivates with its unique architecture, which skillfully connects old with the new - truly an architectural masterpiece.

More highlights for art lovers:

• Louisiana Museum of Modern Art
• Arken Museum of Modern Art
• The Hirschsprung Collection
• Nikolaj Kunsthal
• Ordrupgaard
• Copenhagen Contemporary (CC)
• Kunsthal Charlottenborg

Art galleries:

• GL beach
• Galleri Nicolai Wallner
• V1 Gallery
• Nils Stærk
• Martin Asbæk Gallery
• Dansk Møbelkunst Gallery

Unique flair in charming districts

The cisterns ( Cisternernern) , which are located in the Frederiksberg district , were redesigned into an impressive underground venue for contemporary art. Together with the uncanny echoes of the dripping water, the natural stalactites and stalagmites create an atmospheric environment, which is reinforced by changing light and art installations.

The cisterns not only offer an opportunity to look at art; They also enable a unique immersive experience in an environment that goes beyond the visual.

In order to get an authentic insight into Copenhagen culture , it is essential to take a walk along the Jægersborgade in the Nørrebro district .

This charming road is a shop window for local creativity and houses numerous small art galleries, craft shops as well as organic cafes and individual boutiques. The intimate and relaxed atmosphere of the street invites you to discover.

From handmade art to the tasting of regional Nordic cuisine, the Jægersborgade offers a wonderful insight into the lively local scene of Copenhagen. Your mix of artistic flair and community spirit makes this place an absolutely recommended visit for all those looking for an exceptional experience away from the leaves that had been leaved in Denmark.

Source directory:

Literature:

• Claudia Knauer : Denmark: A country portrait (2nd, updated edition 2017), Ch. Links Verlag, ISBN-10: 9783861538240
• Kunth Verlag : Denmark. The book: Highlights of a fascinating country (1st Edition, June 7, 2021), ISBN-10: 3969650054

Internet:

• Villavilla : Experience the diverse culture of Denmark , https://villavilla.de/daenemark/kultur/
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark : Why denmark is a great place to live , https://denmark.dk/people-and- culture
• Globalization Partners International : Denmark Country Culture, Customs and Traditions , https://www.globalizationpartners.com/2023/01/denmark-country-culture-customs-traditions/
• Crownasia : Exploring the Culture and Art of Denmark , https://www.crownasia.com.ph/lifestyle-blog/exploring-the-culture-and-art-of-denmark/
• The Guardian : What's Denmark's Cultural Secret? , https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/artblog/2008/Apr/09/whatdenmarksCulturalsecret
• GALA : Star portrait-Queen Margrethe , https://www.gala.de/stars/starportraets/koenigin-margrethe-20548718.html
• Culture Treasures : Copenhagen Travel Guide: Unveiling the Art and Design Treasures of the Danish Capital , https://culturetreatheen.com/copenhagen/
• Daily Scandinavian : Art and Culture in Denmark , https://www.dailyscandinavian.com/art-culture-denmark/

Joachim Rodriguez y Romero

Owner and managing director of Kunstplaza . Publicist, editor and passionate blogger in the field of art, design and creativity since 2011. Successful conclusion in web design as part of a university degree (2008). Further development of creativity techniques through courses in free drawing, expression painting and theatre/acting. Profound knowledge of the art market through many years of journalistic research and numerous collaborations with actors/institutions from art and culture.

www. kunstplaza .de/