Are you planning a trip to Copenhagen? If so, you’re in luck because the city boasts a vibrant and diverse art scene, with numerous museums to explore. From the renowned Louisiana Museum of Modern Art to offbeat finds like the Workers Museum, there is something for every art aficionado. Don’t miss out on the chance to immerse yourself in Nordic and international art while soaking up the rich culture of Copenhagen. Get ready to plan your museum-hopping adventure with our picks for the 10 best museums in the city.
The Workers Museum
Description
Welcome to the Workers Museum in Copenhagen! This museum offers visitors a unique and authentic glimpse into everyday life in the city during the 1950s. Housed in the Workers Assembly Building, the Workers Museum showcases the industrial history of Copenhagen over the past 150 years.
Exhibitions
The Workers Museum features permanent exhibitions that highlight the savviness and adaptability of various workers, including seamstresses, shipyard riveters, and brewery bottlers. These exhibitions delve into the lives of these workers, shedding light on their daily routines and struggles.
One of the notable attractions within the Workers Museum is a preserved 1950s apartment. This apartment serves as a time capsule, with its furniture and decor reflecting the era of post-World War II upward mobility. Visitors can step inside and immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the 1950s.
Additionally, the museum also features replicas of a dairy shop and an electronics shop from the 1950s. These recreations provide further insight into the commercial landscape of that decade and allow visitors to experience a slice of life during that time.
Sørensen Home
While exploring the Workers Museum, be sure to spend some time in the Sørensen home. This working-class Copenhagen family moved into their two-room apartment in 1915, and a second generation continued to live there until 1989. The home has been preserved with its original varnished pine planks, offering visitors a glimpse into how unskilled laborers lived in the mid-20th-century.
The Workers Museum may be small in size, but it is packed with fascinating exhibits and stories that will transport you back in time. Be prepared to learn, be inspired, and gain a deeper appreciation for the workers who shaped Copenhagen’s history.
Glyptoteket Museum
Description
Welcome to the Glyptoteket Museum in Copenhagen! Founded in 1897 by brewer Carl Jacobsen, best known for his Danish beer brand Carlsberg, this museum offers a diverse collection of ancient antiquities and 19th-century artworks.
Collections
The Glyptoteket Museum is housed in several elegant mansions and is divided into different sections. The original structure is dedicated to Danish and French sculpture and artifacts from the Danish Golden Age. Here, visitors can admire masterpieces from renowned artists such as Bertel Thorvaldsen and Auguste Rodin.
Another section of the museum focuses on Greek and Roman sculpture and Egyptian treasures. This collection provides a fascinating insight into the ancient civilizations and their artistic achievements.
The newest addition to the museum houses a collection of French paintings. This section showcases the work of esteemed artists such as Claude Monet, Auguste Renoir, and Edgar Degas. Visitors can explore the evolution of French painting from the Impressionist to the Post-Impressionist periods.
The Glyptoteket Museum is a must-visit for art enthusiasts who appreciate a wide range of artistic styles and periods. It offers a unique blend of ancient and modern art in a beautiful setting.
National Gallery of Denmark
Description
Welcome to the National Gallery of Denmark, also known as SMK (Statens Museum for Kunst). Established in the early 16th century, this museum is the largest art museum in the country and houses a vast collection of Danish, Nordic, and European artworks.
Collections
The National Gallery of Denmark traces its roots to the art collections of Danish kings, which were exclusively accessible to royalty until 1849. Today, the museum’s collection covers a wide range of artistic styles and periods.
The museum’s highlights include Albrecht Dürer’s iron etching “Abduction on a Unicorn,” Pablo Picasso’s “Still Life with Door, Guitar and Bottles,” and Emil Nolde’s “Child and Large Bird, 1912.” These artworks represent various artistic movements and provide visitors with a comprehensive look at the evolution of art.
Another noteworthy feature of the National Gallery of Denmark is its focus on Danish and Nordic art. Visitors can explore the works of acclaimed Danish artists such as Vilhelm Hammershøi and Carl Fischer. This emphasis on local talent ensures a deeper understanding of Danish artistic heritage.
Whether you’re a fan of classic European art or interested in discovering the local artistic scene, the National Gallery of Denmark offers something for everyone. It invites visitors to immerse themselves in the world of art and gain new perspectives on creativity.
Louisiana Museum of Modern Art
Description
Welcome to the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, one of Copenhagen’s most iconic cultural institutions. Founded in 1958, this museum celebrates modern and contemporary art within a picturesque coastal setting.
Coastal Location
The Louisiana Museum of Modern Art is located 25 miles north of Copenhagen, offering visitors stunning views of Sweden across the sound. Its unique position by the sea creates a serene and inspiring atmosphere, providing a perfect backdrop for the artworks housed within.
Architectural Features
The museum itself is an architectural gem designed by Jørgen Bo and Wilhelm Wohlert. Situated on the grounds of an old villa, the building seamlessly integrates with the surrounding natural environment. Its thoughtful design allows visitors to engage with art both indoors and outdoors.
Collection Highlights
The Louisiana Museum of Modern Art boasts a collection of over 4,000 pieces, representing various artistic movements from 1945 to the present. Visitors can explore works from European Nouveau Réalisme, American Pop Art, and Minimalism.
The museum features rotating exhibitions, ensuring that there is always something new and exciting to see. However, some artworks are always on display, such as sculptures in the Giacometti Gallery and paintings in the Asger Jorn Gallery. These permanent collections provide visitors with a glimpse into the diversity and breadth of modern and contemporary art.
The Louisiana Museum of Modern Art is a must-visit for art lovers seeking both artistic inspiration and tranquility. With its stunning location, innovative architecture, and extensive collection, it promises a memorable experience for all visitors.
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