Assistens Cemetery

Overview

Located in the hip Nørrebro district, Assistens Cemetery is far more than a burial ground. It dual-functions as a beloved, deeply peaceful urban park and serves as the final resting place for Denmark's most famous historical figures.

Highlights

• Hans Christian Andersen's Grave: The modest resting place of the famous fairy-tale author is the most visited site.
• Søren Kierkegaard's Grave: The philosopher's grave is located in one of the oldest sections of the cemetery.
• The Avenues: Long, strikingly beautiful avenues lined with towering poplar and linden trees.

History

Established in 1760 outside the city walls to relieve the overflowing churchyards within the inner city. Originally intended as a pauper's graveyard, it eventually became highly fashionable among the elite and artists during the Danish Golden Age as a picturesque 'garden of the dead.'

Visitor Tips

• Local Vibe: Don't be surprised to see locals jogging, reading, or sunbathing on the lawns—it is treated as a vital green space, not a solemn mourning ground.
• Navigation: Grab a printed map at the main entrance, as finding specific graves in the sprawling 20-hectare park can be difficult.
• Duration: 1 hour.