Standing quietly on the Langelinie promenade, the Little Mermaid statue is one of Copenhagen’s most iconic landmarks. Since 1913, this petite bronze sculpture has enchanted visitors from all over the world with her grace, melancholy, and timeless beauty. Though modest in size, just 1.25 meters tall, her emotional presence looms large.
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A Tribute to Hans Christian Andersen’s Classic Fairy Tale
The Little Mermaid statue is inspired by the original 1837 fairy tale Den Lille Havfrue by Hans Christian Andersen. Far darker than the Disney adaptation, Andersen’s story tells of a young mermaid who falls in love with a human prince and makes a heart-wrenching sacrifice: giving up her voice and enduring great pain for a chance at human love. In the end, her dream remains unfulfilled, a theme captured in the statue’s wistful gaze across the harbor.
Commissioned by Carl Jacobsen, Crafted by Edvard Eriksen
Commissioned by Carl Jacobsen, son of the Carlsberg brewery founder, and sculpted by Edvard Eriksen, the statue was unveiled in 1913. Eriksen’s wife served as the model for the figure. The statue’s placement on a rock by the water’s edge symbolizes the mermaid’s longing and isolation, echoing the emotional depth of Andersen’s original story.
Why Visit the Little Mermaid Statue?
- Historic and cultural significance as Denmark’s best-known sculpture
- A must-see photo spot in Copenhagen
- Beautiful views of the harbor, especially at sunrise or sunset
- A tangible connection to Hans Christian Andersen’s literary legacy
- Easy to reach on foot or by bike from Copenhagen city center
Despite her small size, the Little Mermaid draws over a million visitors a year and remains a symbol of Copenhagen’s cultural heritage. Her delicate posture and serene location encourage quiet contemplation, especially during the early morning or golden hour.