Visit The Little Mermaid Statue: Copenhagen's Icon

The Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen is one of the most iconic landmarks in Denmark and a must-see for any visitor to the city. This enchanting sculpture, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's beloved fairy tale, has captivated hearts for over a century. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the history, significance, and practical details of visiting this enchanting monument. So, let's dive in and explore the magic of the Little Mermaid!

History and Inspiration Behind the Statue

The story of the Little Mermaid statue begins with the famous Danish brewer Carl Jacobsen, the son of the founder of Carlsberg Breweries. Jacobsen was deeply moved by Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale, The Little Mermaid, and commissioned the sculptor Edvard Eriksen to create a statue based on the character. The statue was unveiled on August 23, 1913, at Langelinie Pier in Copenhagen, where it has stood ever since, gazing wistfully out to sea.

Edvard Eriksen drew inspiration from the Royal Danish Ballet dancer Ellen Price, who danced the lead role in the ballet The Little Mermaid at the Royal Theatre in Copenhagen. However, Price declined to model nude for the statue, so Eriksen's wife, Eline Eriksen, served as the model for the body. The statue's head is believed to be modeled after Ellen Price. The sculpture is made of bronze and granite and stands at a height of 1.25 meters (4.1 feet), making it smaller than many visitors expect. Despite its size, the Little Mermaid exudes a powerful presence and embodies the poignant tale of longing and sacrifice.

The Little Mermaid's story is a timeless classic about a mermaid who dreams of becoming human and gaining a soul. She makes a deal with a sea witch, trading her voice for legs, in the hope of winning the love of a prince. However, the prince marries another, and the Little Mermaid is given a choice: kill the prince and return to the sea as a mermaid, or sacrifice herself and turn into sea foam. She chooses the latter, demonstrating her selfless love and tragic fate. This story resonates with people of all ages and cultures, making the Little Mermaid statue a symbol of love, sacrifice, and the pursuit of dreams.

Visiting the Little Mermaid Statue: What to Expect

Planning a visit to the Little Mermaid statue? Here's what you need to know to make the most of your experience. The statue is located at Langelinie Pier, a scenic waterfront promenade in Copenhagen. It's easily accessible by public transportation, including buses and trains. You can also take a leisurely stroll along the harbor from the city center, which takes about 30 minutes. Many visitors also opt for a canal tour, which offers a unique perspective of the statue from the water.

Best time to visit: The Little Mermaid statue is a popular attraction, so it can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season (June to August). To avoid the crowds, consider visiting early in the morning or later in the evening. The statue is also beautiful in different seasons, with the changing light and weather adding to its charm. In the summer, you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Langelinie Pier, while in the winter, the statue takes on a more melancholic and ethereal quality.

What to see and do: While the Little Mermaid statue is the main attraction, there are other things to see and do in the area. Langelinie Pier is a lovely place to take a walk and enjoy the views of the harbor. You can also visit the nearby Gefion Fountain, a magnificent sculpture depicting the Norse goddess Gefion plowing the land with her oxen. For those interested in history, the Kastellet, a well-preserved 17th-century fortress, is also within walking distance. Additionally, numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops are located along the waterfront, offering opportunities to relax and soak in the atmosphere.

Tips for your visit: When visiting the Little Mermaid statue, it's essential to be aware of a few things. Firstly, the statue is smaller than many people expect, so don't be surprised by its size. Secondly, the area can get crowded, so be prepared to share the space with other visitors. Thirdly, be respectful of the statue and its surroundings. While it's tempting to climb on the rocks for a better photo, it's essential to maintain a safe distance and avoid damaging the monument. Finally, remember to bring your camera to capture the magic of this iconic landmark.

The Little Mermaid in Popular Culture

The Little Mermaid has transcended its origins as a fairy tale and become a global cultural icon. The story has been adapted into numerous forms, including ballets, operas, films, and television shows. The most famous adaptation is Disney's animated film The Little Mermaid (1989), which introduced the character to a new generation and cemented her place in popular culture. The film's success has led to sequels, spin-offs, and a live-action remake, further extending the Little Mermaid's reach.

The Little Mermaid statue itself has also appeared in numerous films, television shows, and advertisements, often serving as a symbol of Copenhagen and Denmark. Its image is used in tourism campaigns, souvenirs, and merchandise, making it one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. The statue's enduring popularity is a testament to the power of Andersen's story and the statue's ability to capture the imagination. The statue represents more than just a fairy tale character; it embodies themes of longing, love, sacrifice, and the pursuit of dreams, which resonate with people across cultures and generations.

Controversies and Vandalism

Despite its beloved status, the Little Mermaid statue has been the target of vandalism and protests over the years. Throughout its history, the statue has been decapitated, painted, and even blown off its base. These acts of vandalism often reflect social and political issues, with protesters using the statue as a canvas to express their views. For example, the statue has been targeted by feminist activists, animal rights activists, and political protesters.

In recent years, there have been calls for better protection of the statue and a more nuanced understanding of its history and symbolism. Some argue that the statue represents unrealistic beauty standards and perpetuates harmful stereotypes about women. Others defend the statue as a cultural icon and a symbol of Danish heritage. These debates highlight the complex relationship between art, culture, and social values. Despite the controversies, the Little Mermaid statue remains a powerful symbol and a beloved landmark, continuing to draw visitors from around the world.

Why the Little Mermaid Still Captivates Us

The enduring appeal of the Little Mermaid statue lies in its ability to connect with us on a deeply emotional level. The statue embodies the themes of love, sacrifice, and longing that are central to Andersen's fairy tale. The story of the Little Mermaid resonates with us because it speaks to our own desires and aspirations, our own experiences of love and loss. The statue's melancholic expression and wistful gaze out to sea evoke a sense of longing and unfulfilled dreams, reminding us of the universal human experience of searching for something more.

Moreover, the Little Mermaid statue is a symbol of Copenhagen and Denmark, representing the country's rich cultural heritage and its connection to the sea. The statue has become an integral part of the city's identity, appearing on postcards, souvenirs, and tourism campaigns. Its image is instantly recognizable around the world, making it a powerful symbol of Danish culture and identity. The statue's location on Langelinie Pier, overlooking the harbor, adds to its charm and allure, creating a magical setting that enhances the visitor experience. The gentle sound of the waves, the fresh sea air, and the stunning views of the harbor all contribute to the statue's enduring appeal.

Guys, whether you're a fan of fairy tales, a lover of art and sculpture, or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, a visit to the Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen is a must. This iconic landmark is more than just a statue; it's a symbol of love, sacrifice, and the pursuit of dreams. So, come and discover the magic of the Little Mermaid for yourself and experience the enchanting world of Hans Christian Andersen.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Little Mermaid Statue

To help you plan your visit, here are some frequently asked questions about the Little Mermaid statue:

1. Who created the Little Mermaid statue?

The Little Mermaid statue was created by Danish sculptor Edvard Eriksen. He was commissioned by Carl Jacobsen, the son of the founder of Carlsberg Breweries, who was deeply moved by Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale.

2. Where is the Little Mermaid statue located?

The statue is located at Langelinie Pier in Copenhagen, Denmark. It sits on a rock overlooking the harbor.

3. How tall is the Little Mermaid statue?

The statue is 1.25 meters (4.1 feet) tall, which is smaller than many visitors expect.

4. What is the Little Mermaid statue made of?

The statue is made of bronze and granite.

5. When was the Little Mermaid statue unveiled?

The statue was unveiled on August 23, 1913.

6. Why is the Little Mermaid statue so famous?

The Little Mermaid statue is famous because it represents the beloved fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen. It has also become a symbol of Copenhagen and Denmark, appearing in numerous films, television shows, and advertisements.

7. How do I get to the Little Mermaid statue?

You can reach the statue by public transportation (bus or train), by walking along the harbor from the city center, or by taking a canal tour.

8. Is there an entrance fee to see the Little Mermaid statue?

No, there is no entrance fee to see the statue. It is located in a public area and is accessible to everyone.

9. What else can I see near the Little Mermaid statue?

Nearby attractions include the Gefion Fountain and the Kastellet, a 17th-century fortress. There are also numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops along the waterfront.

10. Has the Little Mermaid statue ever been damaged?

Yes, the statue has been the target of vandalism on several occasions. It has been decapitated, painted, and even blown off its base. However, it has always been restored and remains a beloved landmark.

We hope this guide has provided you with valuable information about the Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen. Guys, enjoy your visit to this iconic landmark and immerse yourselves in the magic of Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale!