Travel Memories #4. Denmark (eng)

When I write articles about Scandinavian countries, I often use the word "fairytale". You can not disagree with this definition! The countries of this region are romantically called the Kingdoms, their history and culture are rooted in the Middle Ages, and myths and legends are an invaluable treasure of world literature.

In the XIX century, Denmark gave the world Hans Christian Andersen - a great prose writer and poet. Despite the fact that he dreamed of leaving his mark in history as a serious novelist, his fairy tales brought him fame: The Ugly Duckling, The Wild Swans, The Naked King, The Princess and the Pea, The Steadfast Tin Soldier, Thumbelina, The Snow Queen and, of course, The Little Mermaid. This sad tale of sacrificial love inspired many generations to create performances, films and animated cartoons. And 100 years ago a bronze statue of the Little Mermaid was installed on the pier of Copenhagen. She see off the ship of her beloved Prince with the last rays of the sun before turning into a sea foam and disappear forever.

Andersen's Little Mermaid became the symbol of Denmark. By the way, the monument to the writer was created and approved by him during his lifetime and installed near the Copenhagen City Hall. These sculptures are the most popular among tourists.

Danes live surrounded by water: lakes, rivers and harbors form the geographical image of the Danish archipelago. Copenhagen can be considered a reflection of the whole country. The capital is located between the Baltic and North Seas on two islands - Amager and Sjælland. The Nyhavn - "New Harbor" - is the main attraction of Copenhagen. The 1 km canal was the main transport route of the city, a home for sailors and bohemians, and the Danish Red-light district. Now it's restored and pleases with its colors the guests and residents of the city.

Copenhagen is an island capital, and enjoying views and architecture is most advantageous during boat trips through canals. The sea front of the city is no less impressive. In our time, medieval Danish architecture harmoniously coexists with modern buildings. So architecture students from all over the world come here with enthusiasm in search of inspiration.

Perhaps not everyone knows about the special area of Copenhagen - Freetown Christiania. It is a state within the country, partially self-governing, having its own laws. Among them: bans on cars, theft, firearms and heavy drugs. But light drugs are available here, thanks to this the atmosphere of the hippies: bright graffiti, hand-made fairs, farmers' markets. Unfortunately, photographing is prohibited there.

By the way, cars in Denmark are really small amount, and Copenhagen (not Amsterdam!) is recognized as the First Bicycle City in the World! A bicycle here is the main form of transport, environmentally friendly and friendly to nature. Thus, all Scandinavians can be called active, healthy and sensible.

Copenhagen is famous for its cultural life like any European capital. You can visit museums and galleries, parks and palaces, theaters and clubs for every taste. Or you can just walk around the city, admiring the architecture and furtively listening to the Danish speech. There is a rumor abroad that the Danish language is difficult for other Scandinavians to understand, moreover, there are a different dialects on each islands. And the Danish is compulsory for studying in Iceland.

Of course, the sights of Denmark are not only in Copenhagen. My journey took a waterway from Oslo (Norway) to Helsingborg (Sweden), and I did not have time to see the whole country. But I was waiting for a pleasant surprise. Kronborg Castle, better known as the Elsinore near the city of the same name, or "Hamlet Castle". This is the scene of the famous William Shakespeare play. Since 1816, the play about the famous Danish Prince is regularly performed in the walls of the castle.

Despite the gloomy medieval history, the insane Hamlet, the sad Little Mermaid and the depressing films of the modern "storyteller" Lars von Trier, Denmark met me with bright sun and sea air. I ask you to forget the prejudices and visit this wonderful country!

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