Bryghuspladsen

Bryghuspladsen: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites in Copenhagen

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Bryghuspladsen is a dynamic public square at the heart of Copenhagen, embodying the city’s seamless integration of history, culture, and forward-thinking urban design. Once an integral part of Copenhagen’s industrial harbor and brewery district, it has transformed into a vibrant hub showcasing Danish architectural innovation, sustainable living, and cultural openness. At the center of this transformation stands BLOX—a striking mixed-use complex designed by Rem Koolhaas’s OMA—housing the Danish Architecture Center (DAC) and serving as a focal point for exhibitions, events, and civic life.

This comprehensive guide details everything you need to experience Bryghuspladsen: from its layered history and architectural significance to practical information on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and tips for exploring nearby attractions. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, history buff, or a traveler seeking Copenhagen’s cultural heart, Bryghuspladsen offers a rich narrative that connects the city’s past, present, and visionary future. For event details and updates, see the Danish Architecture Center’s official website.

Early History of Bryghuspladsen
Industrial and Military Significance
Urban Transformation and BLOX
Architectural and Cultural Significance
The Danish Architecture Center (DAC)
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets & Accessibility
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
Sustainability and Urban Innovation
Key Dates and Milestones
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Visit Tips
References and Further Reading

Early History of Bryghuspladsen

Bryghuspladsen sits at the intersection of Copenhagen’s medieval core and its vibrant waterfront. The city’s origins date to the late Viking Age, with permanent settlements established around 12,000 BC, and Copenhagen’s formal founding attributed to Bishop Absalon in the 12th century (Introducing Copenhagen). The harbor area quickly became central to trade and defense, with reclaimed land supporting centuries of expansion. By the 17th and 18th centuries, the waterfront thrived as a center for commerce, shipbuilding, and, notably, brewing—a tradition that saw the rise of iconic Danish brands like Carlsberg (Introducing Copenhagen).

Industrial and Military Significance

Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Bryghuspladsen’s location near Slotsholmen—home to the Danish Parliament—made it strategically vital for both industry and defense. The district was dominated by brewery buildings, emblematic of Copenhagen’s industrial boom and rapid urbanization (World Guides). However, in the 1960s, a devastating fire destroyed the original brewery complex, leaving the site dormant for decades (e-architect). This period reflected the city’s broader shift from heavy industry towards a focus on culture, design, and sustainability.

Urban Transformation and BLOX

The late 20th and early 21st centuries ushered in a new era for Bryghuspladsen. As Copenhagen reimagined its urban waterfront, the BLOX project emerged—designed by OMA (Rem Koolhaas)—to reconnect the city with its harbor and establish new public spaces (Culturical; e-architect). BLOX spans one of Copenhagen’s major roads, linking the parliamentary district with the waterfront and introducing a mix of uses: exhibitions, offices, apartments, a café, fitness center, and automated parking.

BLOX’s design challenges conventional city blocks, creating permeability and encouraging urban flow. Routes pass through the building, connecting museums, libraries, and historical sites, while a linear park and terraced public spaces invite the public to linger, socialize, and participate in open-air events (e-architect).

Architectural and Cultural Significance

BLOX is a landmark of contemporary Danish architecture, with stacked glass volumes that reflect both the harbor’s industrial heritage and the city’s embrace of transparency, openness, and innovation. Collaborations with leading firms—Arup, C.F. Møller, and Kragh & Berglund—ensure the project’s architectural excellence (e-architect). The building’s openness, accessibility, and integration of public spaces exemplify Denmark’s values of equality and trust, making Bryghuspladsen a model of social cohesion and urban vibrancy.

The Danish Architecture Center (DAC)

At the heart of BLOX is the Danish Architecture Center (DAC), Denmark’s national hub for architecture, design, and urban development. Since relocating to Bryghuspladsen in 2018, DAC has offered exhibitions, guided tours, educational programs, and public events. Its flagship “So Danish!” exhibition chronicles the evolution of Danish architecture and its role in shaping democratic society. Annual festivals, including the Copenhagen World Capital of Architecture, position Bryghuspladsen as a focal point for global architectural dialogue.

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets & Accessibility

Bryghuspladsen (Public Square): Open 24/7, free of charge.
Danish Architecture Center (DAC): Open Tuesday to Sunday, 11:00 AM–6:00 PM (closed Mondays and major holidays). Hours may vary during special events—always check the official DAC website for updates.
Tickets: Entry to outdoor spaces is free. DAC exhibitions typically cost DKK 120 for adults, with discounts for students and seniors; children under 18 enter free. Tickets are available online or at the venue.
Accessibility: The entire area—including BLOX and DAC—is wheelchair accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms (Accessible Copenhagen).
Transport: Bryghuspladsen is easily accessed by metro (Gammel Strand, M3), bus lines 1A and 26, and Copenhagen’s extensive cycling lanes. Limited car parking is available in the BLOX underground garage; sustainable transport is recommended.

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

Bryghuspladsen’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring Copenhagen’s key sites:

Christiansborg Palace: Seat of Danish Parliament, offering panoramic views.
The Royal Library (Black Diamond): Modern architectural landmark.
National Museum of Denmark: Extensive cultural and historical collections.
Nyhavn: Iconic harbor with colorful buildings and vibrant cafés.
Tivoli Gardens: Historic amusement park renowned for its gardens and entertainment.

Combine your visit with a stroll along the waterfront, or join a guided tour offered by DAC or local operators for deeper insights into Copenhagen’s historical evolution (Megan Starr; TravelPander; The Crazy Tourist).

Travel Tips:

Wear comfortable shoes for walking and be prepared for variable weather.
Visit during spring or summer for outdoor events and extended daylight.
Copenhagen is very safe, but standard precautions apply in crowded areas.
Most locals speak excellent English and are happy to assist visitors.

Sustainability and Urban Innovation

Bryghuspladsen exemplifies Copenhagen’s commitment to sustainability. BLOX features energy-efficient systems, green roofs, and durable, eco-friendly materials (Copenhagen Urban Development). The square is part of Copenhagen’s goal to be carbon-neutral by 2025, encouraging cycling, walking, and public transport. The DAC and associated events frequently highlight sustainable design and adaptive reuse, fostering public dialogue about the future of cities (DAC; Wonderful Copenhagen).

Key Dates and Milestones

12th century: Bishop Absalon establishes Copenhagen’s original fortress (Introducing Copenhagen).
17th–19th centuries: Bryghuspladsen area grows as industrial and brewing district.
1960s: Fire devastates original brewery complex (e-architect).
2018: BLOX and DAC officially open at Bryghuspladsen (DAC).
2023–2026: Copenhagen is UNESCO World Capital of Architecture; Bryghuspladsen hosts major celebrations (DAC).
2025: Inaugural Copenhagen Architecture Biennial, emphasizing “Slow Down Denmark” (Designboom).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is Bryghuspladsen open year-round?
A: Yes, the square is open 24/7. DAC and BLOX indoor facilities have set opening hours.

Q: Is there an entry fee to Bryghuspladsen or DAC?
A: The square is free; DAC exhibitions typically require a ticket (DKK 120 for adults, discounts available).

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, the DAC and other operators offer guided architectural and historical tours. Check DAC’s event calendar for current offerings.

Q: Is the area accessible for wheelchair users?
A: Fully accessible, with smooth paths, ramps, and accessible facilities. See VisitCopenhagen Accessibility.

Q: How do I get there using public transport?
A: Metro (Gammel Strand, M3), bus lines 1A and 26, and extensive bike lanes make access easy.

Summary and Visit Tips

Bryghuspladsen is a microcosm of Copenhagen’s transformation from industrial harbor to global exemplar of sustainable, inclusive urbanism. Its rich history, contemporary architecture, and vibrant public life make it essential for anyone interested in the evolution of cities. With open access, top-tier exhibitions, and proximity to key landmarks, Bryghuspladsen offers a memorable urban experience for locals and tourists alike.