Mermaid copenhagen

The Little Mermaid of Copenhagen, sculpted by Edvard Eriksen in 1913, is one of Denmark's most visited monuments and a symbol of the Danish capital.

About this subject

The Little Mermaid statue, located on the Langelinie promenade in Copenhagen's harbor, is one of Denmark's most iconic tourist attractions. Standing only 1.25 meters tall and weighing about 175 kg, the bronze figure represents the protagonist of Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale of the same name, first published in 1837. The work was commissioned by brewer Carl Jacobsen of Carlsberg after he was captivated by a ballet based on the story. Inaugurated on August 23, 1913, the statue was modeled after ballerina Ellen Price, but since she refused to pose nude, the body was sculpted using the artist's wife, Eline Eriksen, as the model.

Over its history, the Little Mermaid has been subjected to several acts of vandalism, including decapitations in 1964 and 1998, and the loss of an arm in 1984. Despite this, the statue has always been restored and continues to attract millions of visitors annually. In 2010, it was temporarily relocated to the World Expo in Shanghai, sparking controversy among Danes. Replicas of the statue exist in various cities around the world, such as Solvang, California, and Kimballton, Iowa.

Culturally, the Little Mermaid represents not only Andersen's work but also Copenhagen's identity. Her melancholic pose and gaze toward the sea evoke the tragic ending of the original tale, unlike the popular Disney version. The statue is a symbol of innocence, sacrifice, and Denmark's connection to the sea. Tourists often take photos at the site, and night visitors can admire the illumination that highlights the figure against the harbor skyline.

Interestingly, the statue's small size surprises many tourists who expect a larger structure. However, this intentional feature reinforces the character's delicacy. The statue is monitored by cameras and since 2017 has a 3D digital replica for easier future restoration. The surrounding area also offers Nyhavn harbor and Kastellet fortress, making up a classic itinerary for visitors to the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Little Mermaid statue located?

The statue is situated on the Langelinie promenade in the port of Copenhagen, Denmark, near the city center.

Who sculpted the Little Mermaid statue?

Danish sculptor Edvard Eriksen created the statue, which was inaugurated in 1913.

Why is the Little Mermaid so small?

The statue stands only 1.25 meters tall because it was designed to be intimate and based on a real model, ballerina Ellen Price.