GEFION FOUNTAIN

The Gefion Fountain is one of the most scenic beauties of Copenhagen. As the folklore entails, Swedish king Gylfe provided the land to the Norse goddess Gefion. The only condition was that she would get as much land as she could plough overnight. She sought help from her four sons by turning them into oxen. They ploughed so deep that the land was raised and pulled into the sea. This is how the Norse goddess extracted Zealand from Sweden. Today, as you explore the land around you, you will observe that Lake Vännern resembles Zealand’s shape.

The Gefion Fountain, located in Copenhagen, Denmark, is a stunning and iconic landmark that holds great historical and mythological significance. Designed by Danish sculptor Anders Bundgaard, the fountain was unveiled in 1908 to honor the legendary Norse goddess Gefion.

The fountain depicts Gefion, a goddess associated with fertility and agriculture, plowing the land with her four sons who transform into oxen. According to the ancient myth, King Gylfi of Sweden promised Gefion as much land as she could plow in a night. She used her sons' strength to create the island of Zealand, where Copenhagen now stands.

The monument stands majestically at the waterfront, facing the beautiful Copenhagen harbor. Its grandeur and intricacy make it a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike. Whether during the day or illuminated at night, the Gefion Fountain remains a symbol of Danish folklore and cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the vibrant city of Copenhagen.

Highlights

• Witness the majestic statue of Norse Goddess Gefion who used the strength of her four sons and ploughed the island of Zealand from Sweden.
• Bask in the beauty of a fountain that displays a cascading beauty of pools and creates a relaxing water display for a visually appealing effect.
• Learn about the historical significance of the fountain which was designed by Anders Bundgaard and holds immense cultural importance.
• Cover the adjacent attractions like the Kastellet fortress and Little Mermaid statue which are central and easily accessible for everyone.
• Visit at night to witness the magic of an illuminated fountain as it creates the perfect backdrop for dusk vacation pictures.

How to Reach

By Car: The Gefion Fountain is approximately 3.5 km from the Copenhagen Central Station. It will take around 5 minutes to reach the destination.

By Train: The fountain is 4 km from the København H Station. You will reach the destination within 10 minutes.

By Bus: You can board a direct bus from Hovedbanegården, Tivoli to the Gefion Fountain as the distance is approximately 4 km and takes 20 minutes via bus.

Best Time to Visit

The Gefion Fountain is open to the public throughout the year.

Best Season: Visit in the summer between June and August as the weather is warm and the days are pleasant.

Best Day in the Week: Plan a visit during the weekdays as the crowd is comparatively less and promises a peaceful experience.

Best Time of the Day: Visit early in the morning to soak in the beauty of the fountain and capture beautiful photographs against the morning light.

Visitor Tips

• Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for the season.
• Respect the site by not climbing on the sculptures or throwing coins into the fountain.
• Bring a camera to capture the mesmerising sculptures and green surroundings.
• Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
• Bring a picnic to enjoy with your friends and family in nearby Langelinie Park.
• Wear comfortable shoes to walk around the nearby attractions and parks.