Dänemark: Kulturelles Juwel voller Kunst, Design und einzigartigem Charme

In northern Europe lies the small and peaceful country of Denmark, surrounded by ancient mountains and the forests of Scandinavia.

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

Interestingly, only Germany borders Denmark by land. The country's other neighbors are Norway on the opposite side of the sea and Sweden to the north.

Denmark's diverse culture is by regional traditions and differences rooted in its heritage, art , cuisine, and Viking . The country's name means "borderland of the Danes," and it is known for its high quality of life and low levels of corruption.

Denmark is a cultural paradise brimming with art and charm, located just a short drive from Germany. The country offers a wealth of activities, from exploring fascinating cities like Copenhagen to relaxing on the beautiful beaches of the North Sea and the Baltic Sea.

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

Denmark often ranks at the top in worldwide surveys on quality of life and happiness .

How can a small country with changeable weather be such a wonderful place to live?”

In this article, we dedicate ourselves to the fascinating culture, rich artistic heritage, customs and traditions of this unique country, providing detailed information and descriptions.

Denmark – The cultural paradise in Northern Europe

Denmark is a cultural paradise in Northern Europe that attracts many visitors from Germany and around the world. The country has a rich history that is reflected in its culture.

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

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

But Denmark's culinary heritage, with its specialties like smørrebrød and frikadeller, is also not to be underestimated.

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

Cornerstones of Danish society: trust, community and the Danish welfare state

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

Trust also plays a significant role in the business world. It is generally assumed that people are honest unless proven otherwise.

The strong social trust in Denmark plays an important role in financing extensive social programs, resulting in the country's citizens being among the highest taxpayers worldwide.

Danish healthcare is funded by taxes and is free for patients. Schools and universities are also publicly funded and do not charge tuition fees.

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

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

Culture, customs and traditions of Denmark – A few key facts

Population

Denmark has a population of 5.8 million people, which is 0.07% of the world's population. This figure does not include Greenland and the Faroe Islands. Compared to other countries, Denmark's population has grown steadily. Copenhagen is the largest city with over 1.1 million inhabitants, followed by Aarhus 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 spoken by around six million people in Denmark, the Faroe Islands and Greenland, as well as in small communities worldwide.

During the Viking Age , communication took place in Old Norse, which is a precursor to the modern Danish language.

Religion and belief

Christianity is the predominant religion in Denmark, with 72% of the population practicing Lutheranism. The faith focuses on good works, grace, and faith as the means to salvation .

Traditional churches can be found throughout the country, highlighting the influence of Christianity on Danish culture. As Islam is the largest non-Christian religion in Denmark, there are over one hundred mosques across the country, two of which, located in Copenhagen, offer communal prayers for Muslims.

Family life

Denmark is considered one of the most family-friendly countries in the world due to government support for childcare, education, and healthcare. The country's cultural values ​​include social trust, a close-knit community, and "hygge," which, in simplified terms, means something like coziness and contentment.

Most families are small, and the nuclear family is at the center of the social structure. Children are encouraged to be independent from an early age and are often cared for in daycare centers from their first year. Many Danish couples live together without marrying before starting a family.

Overall, Denmark presents a positive image as a place with a strong focus on families and community.

Culinary

Danish cuisine has evolved into a new trend in recent decades, known as New Nordic Cuisine . This trend is characterized by the use of local and seasonal ingredients and enjoys great popularity both at home and abroad.

Traditional Danish dishes like smørrebrød (sandwiches consisting of rye bread with fish, potatoes, eggs, or meat) and stegt flæsk (roasted pork pieces served with boiled potatoes and parsley sauce) are being reinvented to appeal to modern diners. One of the main initiators of this trend was chef Claus Meyer , who now owns a restaurant chain in Denmark as well as a Danish grocery store at Grand Central Station in New York.

Danish cuisine now boasts 28 restaurants with a total of 39 Michelin stars – more than any other Nordic country.

Fashion

Danish fashion is known worldwide for its high quality and minimalist look. With the growing popularity of Copenhagen Fashion Week, this style continues to evolve.

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

Organic Basics produces underwear from technically advanced textiles, while Aiayu is committed to zero waste.

In summary, Danish fashion is not only stylish, but also produced in an environmentally conscious and ethically responsible manner.

Art and Architecture

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

The medieval paintings originate primarily from church murals and can be found in 600 churches across the country. This collection represents the world's largest surviving collection of church murals.

The origins of Danish architecture date back to the Viking Age, as archaeological finds prove. In the Middle Ages, an architectural style developed, characterized by Romanesque and Gothic churches, as well as magnificent cathedrals and castles throughout the country.

In modern times, Danish architecture experienced a true boom and enjoys worldwide popularity.

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

When it comes to literature , Denmark is known for its most famous storyteller: Hans Christian Andersen was born in Odense in 1805. Among his most popular stories are "The Ugly Duckling , "The Snow Queen , "Thumbelina," and The Little Mermaid "—whose statue can be admired in Copenhagen's harbor.

The diverse culture and art of Denmark – A journey

The timeless appeal of Nordic design is highly valued today. Denmark is widely known for its rich cultural tradition and vibrant arts scene , where ancient customs meet modern creativity.

From the cobblestone streets of Copenhagen to the picturesque coastal towns, Denmark is a tapestry of history, tradition, and artistic creativity .

It is undoubtedly a country with a wide range of artistic expression. In Denmark, art is not confined to galleries. The country's open-air museums and public spaces are adorned with impressive sculptures and thought-provoking installations that seamlessly blend nature and art.

During your holiday in Denmark, take a leisurely stroll through the charming towns and villages of Denmark, where historic buildings reflect the country's rich cultural heritage.

Traditional Danish handicrafts

The Viking Age, which lasted from the 8th to the 11th century, played a crucial role in the development of Denmark's early artistic traditions. The Vikings were skilled craftsmen and renowned for their intricate metalwork, woodcarving, and textile production.

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

Traditional crafts such as pottery, weaving, and woodworking continue to be practiced and celebrated. Experienced artisans painstakingly craft each piece by hand, paying meticulous attention to even the smallest detail.

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

In southern Denmark, the town of Tønder made a name for itself through the production of special woven fabrics called Tønder lace . Here, experienced weavers create delicate lace patterns based on traditional designs.

Woodworking is also deeply rooted in Danish culture: furniture craftsmanship masterfully combines aesthetics and functionality. Danish furniture design is characterized by clean lines, functionality, and timeless elegance – making the iconic Danish chair, with its sleek and minimalist design , a symbol of Danish design .

Danish cultural festivals and events

Denmark is proud of its rich cultural heritage and celebrates it with a wealth of festivals and events. These gatherings bring people together to experience Danish traditions, arts, and cuisine, creating a vibrant network of cultural experiences .

Culture Night in Copenhagen is particularly anticipated , showcasing the city's vibrant art scene. Every year, visitors have the opportunity to explore museums, galleries, and other cultural institutions until late into the night.

The entire city comes alive 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 vibrant and dynamic, expanding the boundaries of artistic expression.

Copenhagen, in particular , has become a center for modern art, as both established and emerging artists present their work in numerous galleries and art spaces. The Danish capital is home to the renowned Louisiana Museum of Modern Art , located just outside the city.

This world-class museum is renowned for its impressive collection of modern and contemporary artworks across various media and styles. The museum's stunning waterfront location enhances the overall experience, creating a unique connection between art and nature for visitors.

Aarhus , Denmark's second-largest city, is also known for its thriving art scene. The ARoS Aarhus art museum represents diversity and innovation in contemporary Danish art.

A striking installation by Olafur Eliasson called “Your Rainbow Panorama” offers visitors a captivating 360-degree view of the city through a circular walkway surrounded by colorful glass panels. This fusion of art, architecture, and urban landscape perfectly embodies the spirit of the contemporary Danish art scene.

Cultural attractions in Denmark

Denmark is a country full of cultural attractions that showcase the country's rich history and artistic heritage.

From modern museums to historic castles, there's something for every visitor to discover. One of Denmark's landmarks is Kronborg Castle in Helsingør , a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Renaissance castle impresses with its striking design, central courtyard, towers, and ornately decorated rooms and defensive walls. Its splendor and eventful history make it popular with both tourists and history buffs.

Furthermore, it serves as the setting for Shakespeare's famous play "Hamlet" , which adds additional intrigue and fascination.

Danish design, sculpture and architecture

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

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

Danish architecture is characterized by functionality, simplicity, and aesthetics. Examples of this include the famous houses of Danish architect and designer Arne Jacobsen , such as the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel in Copenhagen, or the Egg Chair , which achieved worldwide fame and became a timeless design icon.

Another architectural highlight of Denmark is the Copenhagen Opera House Henning Larsen , this modern building impresses with its unique design and breathtaking views of the harbor.

Denmark also has much 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 adorn numerous squares and museums both in Denmark and internationally.

In addition, there are numerous art museums throughout the country, including the Ny Carlsberg Glyptoteket and the National Gallery SMK – both also located in Copenhagen – as well as the aforementioned ARoS Aarhus Art Museum .

This museum landscape offers visitors a comprehensive overview of different eras and styles of art history, right up to the contemporary art scene.

Literature and Poetry

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

Andersen, in particular, remains the most widely read author from Denmark. His children's fairy tales, including "The Ugly Duckling , "The Emperor's New Clothes," and "The Princess and the Pea," have brought him worldwide fame and continue to serve as inspiration for theatrical performances, ballet productions, films, and visual artworks—they are an integral part of our bedtime story culture.

During the 20th century, Karen Blixen , writing under the pseudonym Isak Dinesen , received worldwide recognition for her 1937 memoir about her time in Kenya.

These were later adapted into the Hollywood film "Out of 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 literary thriller "Miss Smilla's Feeling for Snow" (1992), which begins in Copenhagen and eventually unfolds in the icy waters of Greenland.

Theatre and Dance

The venerable Det Kongelige Teater (Royal Theatre) in Copenhagen, founded in 1748, has retained its old stage and continues to present plays.

However, it was replaced by an impressive futuristic waterfront theater, which opened in 2008.

The city's art scene has also grown in recent years: A purpose-built opera house called Operaen houses the renowned Royal Danish Opera , and the new DR Konsertsalen provides a stage for performances by the Royal Danish Orchestra.

Founded 150 years ago, the Royal Danish Ballet is one of the most influential dance companies in the world.

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

Cinema and television

Denmark's oldest still-existing film company, Nordisk Film Kompagni , was founded in 1906. It was also the birthplace of Carl Theodor Dreyer (1889-1968), who directed one of the most influential films of all time: "The Passion of Joan of Arc" (1928).

Although Dreyer believed his masterpiece had been destroyed by fire, the original was rediscovered in a Norwegian psychiatric hospital in 1981. Today, the state-funded Danish Film Institute is the heart of a vibrant Danish film industry.

Three Danish films have won the Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film : Babette's Feast (1986), Pelle the Conqueror (1987), and In a Better World (2010). They were directed by Susanne Bier.

Other Danish films have also garnered international acclaim, such as Lars von Trier's "Dancer in the Dark" and Thomas Vinterberg's "The Celebration ." These two directors, along with Kristian Levring, signatories of the Dogma 95 manifesto . This manifesto stipulated that films should be shot on location without artificial light or sound, using handheld cameras—a personal challenge to revive the art of filmmaking.

Music and pop culture

Last but not least, when traveling to Denmark, one should not forget that music plays an important role: from classical music to the more modern pop genre, many famous musicians have their roots in the land of Hans Christian Andersen.

These include, among others, the conductor Thomas Dausgaard , the singer, songwriter and pianist Agnes Obel and of course the band Aqua with their world hit “Barbie Girl” .

Overall, Denmark offers a wide range of cultural attractions to suit every taste. From art and architecture to music, there is much to discover and experience. The country is proud of its rich cultural history and its modern artistic output, and invites visitors to be a part of it.

What is the secret behind Denmark's flourishing art and culture scene?

Even in an era of austerity measures, the Danes have outperformed most other European countries in supporting the arts.

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

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

Art is for everyone, but many people are unaware of that.”

The Danes have gained a lead in filmmaking , architecture , sculpture , and design – despite their modest size and population. This has been made possible by their outstanding support for the arts .

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

In fact, the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts regularly promotes cultural development and international exchange among visual artists, musicians, writers, and other artists (e.g., with Greece). Queen Margrethe II of Denmark .

She is passionate about art and is herself an enthusiastic painter and sculptor. In addition to giving weekly private art lessons, she organizes exhibitions of her work and even sells it online at auctions.

She also designs theater costumes, stage sets, and even bishops' robes. Under the pseudonym "Ingahild Grathmer," she has also created illustrations for Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings." Danish "All Men Are Mortal," "HMVejerbjerg," is also impressive .

Danish art and design are always promoted during state visits by the Queen.”

Trine Villemann , author of the bestselling biography of the Danish royal family “1015 København K” emphasized this more than 10 years ago .

Innovation and design in Danish DNA

The Danes are distinguished by their upbringing, which enables them to question authority, making them strong innovators.

In various fields such as design, environmental science, pharmaceuticals, biomedicine, and technology, this small country is continuously developing revolutionary approaches. From a young age, Danes learn to question conventional wisdom and are encouraged to find better alternatives.

This makes innovation and entrepreneurship an integral part of Danish identity. An economic system that encourages entrepreneurial risk and provides social security further supports this.

In all global rankings of the world's most creative and innovative countries, tiny Denmark always finds a way to be among the most inventive.

In the latest list, the “Global Innovation Index 2019” , compiled by WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization) , Denmark takes its place among the top 10 most innovative countries in the world.

The size of the country plays a significant role , as Denmark is like a creative toolbox where ideas can flourish and be brought to life. Limited domestic demand forces Danish entrepreneurs to think globally.

Technology is enabling Denmark to share its stories globally. Storytelling is a Danish tradition, originating in the fairy tales of Hans Christian Andersen. Now, new entrepreneurs are carrying this Danish heritage on to the next generation. Digital advancements are removing the limitations of storytelling, allowing creatives and entrepreneurs in Denmark not only to tell stories but also to become part of them.

Danish design has set an international standard since the 1950s, and sectors such as healthcare and pharmaceuticals play a significant and continuously evolving role in the Danish economy. Today, Danish innovators are leading the way in sustainability and eco-friendly living .

Danish design has become known worldwide for its clean lines and refined aesthetic. It gained popularity in the 1940s and 1950s, as the light and minimalist style of Danish furniture complemented the straight lines of the new International Style architecture.

Chairs, lamps, silverware, glass objects, and textiles from Denmark quickly became sought after by design enthusiasts worldwide. Many of these classic examples of Danish design, now considered art, sell for several thousand dollars at auction.

But Danish design is constantly evolving: Nowadays, beautiful Danish furniture, jewelry and other design objects are available in all price ranges.

Copenhagen – Denmark's cultural center

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

Design

This is where renowned Scandinavian brands like HAY and Muuto born. A tour of this European metropolis will take you through the city's rich design heritage, from well-known landmarks to lesser-known art venues such as the Designmuseum Danmark , the ARKEN Museum of Modern Art , and the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art .

The Danish Design Centre (DDC) is an innovative venue that celebrates Danish design and innovation. The DDC has made a name for itself through its exciting exhibitions, which showcase contemporary design trends and address global challenges from a design perspective.

But the DDC goes beyond the role of a traditional museum – it also functions as a knowledge center, fostering dialogue about the significance of design in business and society. Immersing yourself in the fascinating world of Danish design at the DDC offers unique insights into how design influences our lives.

For anyone interested in the melting pot where art, design and architecture meet, a visit to ETAGE Projects in Copenhagen is a must.

This progressive design gallery distinguishes itself through its strong commitment to showcasing interdisciplinary works that blur the traditional boundaries of design classifications. Through a diverse range of artists and designers, ETAGE Projects embraces experimental and conceptual ideas, thus establishing itself as a vibrant hub for innovative design thinking.

The gallery continually sets new standards through inspiring exhibitions that challenge conventional views on design and illuminate its role within contemporary culture.

A visit to ETAGE Projects goes beyond simply looking at objects; it is about engaging with dynamic ideas in the field of design and experiencing captivating narratives – a stimulating experience for lovers of both art and design.

If you're a design enthusiast staying in Copenhagen, you should definitely visit the city's design events 3 Days of Design and Design Week Copenhagen . These events attract professionals and enthusiasts from all over the world and offer a comprehensive exploration of Danish design, featuring new innovative concepts, classics, and avant-garde ideas.

Design Week Copenhagen is a vibrant celebration of Danish and international design, often with a focus on sustainability and social issues. These two events offer a unique opportunity to experience the richness of Danish design culture and to network with creatives from around the world in the vibrant environment of Copenhagen.

Other highlights for design enthusiasts:

• Design Museum Denmark
• Normann Copenhagen
• HAY House
• Muuto HQ
• Space Copenhagen
• Still life
• Designer Zoo

Architecture

The Danish Architecture Centre (DAC) in Copenhagen is an absolute must-see for anyone passionate about design, architecture, and urban life. Located in the innovative BLOX building on the city's waterfront, it offers a fascinating journey through the world of architecture and design.

The center presents both historical retrospectives and contemporary developments in a wide range of exhibitions. Here, visitors can deepen their knowledge of the past and present of Danish architecture and get a glimpse of future projects.

In addition to the exhibitions, the center also offers a variety of activities such as city tours and workshops, making it a captivating place for people of all ages. Furthermore, the rooftop terrace boasts a breathtaking panoramic view of the city.

Other architectural gems:

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

Fine arts

The Statens Museum for Kunst in Denmark, also known as the National Gallery , is the largest art museum in Denmark. It houses an impressive collection of national and international art spanning the last seven centuries.

Visitors will be captivated by a diverse collection of works, encompassing both classical masterpieces and modern art, thus offering a comprehensive overview of various artistic styles and their development. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum regularly organizes compelling exhibitions of contemporary art, presenting new and innovative perspectives.

In addition to all this, the museum impresses with its unique architecture, which skillfully combines old with new – truly an architectural masterpiece in itself.

Other 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
• Danish Furniture Art Gallery

Unique flair in charming city districts

The cisterns ( Cisternerne) located in the Frederiksberg district have been transformed into a stunning underground venue for contemporary art. The natural stalactites and stalagmites, combined with the eerie echoes of dripping water, create an atmospheric environment further enhanced by changing light and art installations.

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

gain an authentic insight into Copenhagen culture Jægersborggade in the Nørrebro district .

This charming street is a showcase for local creativity and is home to numerous small art galleries, craft shops, organic cafés, and unique boutiques. The street's intimate and relaxed atmosphere is perfect for leisurely exploration.

From handcrafted art to tastings of regional Nordic cuisine, Jægersborggade offers a wonderful glimpse into Copenhagen's vibrant local scene. Its blend of artistic flair and community spirit makes it a highly recommended destination for anyone seeking an extraordinary experience off the beaten path in Denmark's capital.

List of sources:

Literature:

• Claudia Knauer : Denmark: A Country Portrait (2nd, updated edition 2017), Ch. Links Verlag, ISBN-10: 9783861538240
• KUNTH Publishing : 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/2023/06/01/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/whatsdenmarksculturalsecret
• 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://culturetreasures.com/copenhagen/
• Daily Scandinavian : Art and Culture in Denmark , https://www.dailyscandinavian.com/art-culture-denmark/