Copenhagen's Thorvaldsen Museum
The oldest museum in Copenhagen pays homage to the renowned Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen. It holds a stunning assortment of the artist's sculptures and paintings. Thorvaldsen's final resting place is in the museum's garden.
In the mid-19th century, the renowned Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen proposed a unique arrangement to King Frederick VI: he would donate all his works to the city of Copenhagen in exchange for a museum dedicated to his honor. This wish materialized in 1848 when Copenhagen's first museum, the Thorvaldsen Museum, opened its doors.
Situated on the right side of Christiansborg Palace, the museum showcases the most exceptional works of the Danish sculptor. Among its highlights are works like Ganymede with the Eagle of Jupiter, Venus with the Apple, and Jason with the Golden Fleece, solidifying Thorvaldsen's reputation as a master of neoclassical sculpture.
The Thorvaldsen Museum features a diverse array of sculptures portraying Roman gods, historical figures, and even the artist himself. Additionally, the second floor showcases objects from Thorvaldsen's personal collection of antiquities.
Inspired by Ancient Egyptian architecture, both the interior and exterior of the museum are decorated with palm trees and animal sculptures. The building's design received widespread acclaim, prompting Thorvaldsen to request to be buried in the museum's garden, where his grave remains to this day.
Schedule
Tuesday to Sunday: 10 am to 5 pm
Monday: closed
Price
Adults: 95 kr (US$ 13.41)
Children under 18: free
Wednesdays: free for everyone
Transport
Bus: lines 1A, 2A, 9A, 26, and 40
Nearby places
Christiansborg Palace (88 m) Danish War Museum (271 m) National Museum of Denmark (313 m) National Library of Denmark (433 m) Guiness World Records Museum in Copenhagen (522 m)