Mermaid copenhagen

The Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen is an iconic sculpture based on Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale, a top tourist attraction in the Danish capital.

About this subject

The Little Mermaid statue, located at the Langelinie promenade in Copenhagen, Denmark, was unveiled on August 23, 1913. Sculpted by Edvard Eriksen, the work was commissioned by Carl Jacobsen, heir to the Carlsberg brewery, after he was inspired by a ballet adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale. The statue stands only 1.25 meters tall and weighs about 175 kilograms, yet its fame has made it one of the most photographed monuments in the world. It depicts a female figure with a fish tail, seated on a rock, gazing wistfully out to sea.

The Little Mermaid has a history marked by vandalism and relocation. Over the years, it has been decapitated twice, had an arm sawed off, and been painted in various colors for political protests. In 2010, it was moved to the World Expo in Shanghai, with a temporary replica taking its place at the harbor. Despite the damage, the statue has always been restored and remains a symbol of the city and Andersen's legacy. The original 1837 tale tells of a mermaid who sacrifices her life at sea in search of love and an immortal soul, a theme that resonates with visitors of all ages.

The monument sits on a rocky base at the waterfront, near the Kastellet fortress. Millions of tourists visit each year, making it a cultural icon of Denmark. The image of the Little Mermaid is frequently used in promotional campaigns and international media, representing Copenhagen as a romantic and historic destination. The statue has also inspired other versions worldwide, including a bronze replica in Solvang, California, and a modern interpretation called "The Genetic Mermaid" by artist Bjørn Nørgaard, installed in Copenhagen in 2006.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who sculpted the Little Mermaid statue?

The statue was sculpted by Danish artist Edvard Eriksen. He created it in 1913 on commission from Carl Jacobsen.

Why is the Little Mermaid famous?

It is an iconic symbol of Copenhagen, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale. Despite its small size, it attracts millions of tourists and has undergone several acts of vandalism that have made it even more famous.

Where exactly is the statue located?

The Little Mermaid is located at the Langelinie promenade in the port of Copenhagen, near the Kastellet fortress. The address is Langelinie, 2100 Copenhagen Ø.