Monday , March 18 2024
An ancient city in Denmark has riches to share with visitors, young and old.

Book Review: ‘Secret Copenhagen’ by Jonglez Publishing

Denmark’s capital city, Copenhagen, is the cultural center of the country, with stunning architecture, unusual museums, and secrets hidden in its century old gardens, parks and art museums.

Secret Copenhagen, from Jonglez Publishing is your guide to the unusual along with intriguing hints to finding the quirks and whimsy that make the city so unique. With full-color maps of each city section, as well as narratives on the history behind many unusual architectural and geographic mysteries, this guide is a perfect companion, especially for first time visitors to the city. The photos will help you decide on the ‘can’t miss’ areas, and help you spot the secrets others may walk right past. One example would be the tunnel to the yellow houses.

If traveling a bit outside Copenhagen, by auto, bike or bus, there is a tunnel leading to a secluded village filled with tiny yellow houses. Once home to railroad workers, today only about half the residents work for the railroad, but the charm remains as it was in the early 20th century.

If you can arrange your visit to Copenhagen in Spring, you may be treated to the magnificent display of cherry blossom trees, which blanket the city near the time of the Easter holiday. No display of the blossoms is more impressive than in the park at Bispebjerg Kirkegard.

The city center is rich with art and architecture throughout. Perhaps you will find yourself near the prison and court house and spot an unusual site. Until 1997, the tiny window that opens from the street was a way for the Danish Press Bureau to receive hot news tips from reporters. Messenger boys would collect the notes from a shelf inside the window and deliver them to journalists.

Cemeteries and crypts seem to be an eternal interesting feature of old cities. Copenhagen has plenty to explore, as well as unique gardens, which are special places to visit and rest while traveling. West of the city, Frederiksberg Garden won’t disappoint. Paths are designed to let visitors ramble, relax, and enjoy visual surprises. With no straight paths, the garden is designed to encourage meandering. Yet, if you can find your way to the its center, the design reveals a lovely site where two main axes converge. While in Frederiksberg, stop in to visit the unusual 1898 gymnasium, a beautiful building designed by P.V. Jensen-Klint.

The Copenhagen Fire Museum documents the tragedies of several 18th century fires in the city, learn about fighting fires, and enjoy the stories told by museum volunteers.

Lift your spirits with a visit to the 19th century stable turned into the art studio of Astrid Noack, who worked on her sculptures there from 1936 to 1950. The artist’s studio is open to public for special events.

Lastly, west of the city, you’ll find a delightful surprise at The Olga’s Lyst Toy Museum. Be sure to make an appointment in advance, to enjoy the preserved treasures in this 200-year old look back at Danish history.

Take Secret Copenhagen along as your companion when you wander through the city center, and to explore the unusual and interesting areas to the north, south and west. The guide will guarantee you will not only see the best of the best in Copenhagen, you will also learn the history, whimsy and quirks of this unique Danish city.

About Helen Gallagher

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