What Knippelsbro is
Knippelsbro is a historic bridge connecting central Copenhagen with Christianshavn across the Inner Harbour. It is both a vital piece of infrastructure and a cultural landmark. It is one of only two bridges carrying motor vehicles across the harbour in central Copenhagen; the other is Langebro (Wikipedia).
The bridge is accessible to pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles. Its towers feature on Denmark’s 200 kroner bill, and one of them now houses Kulturtårnet, a cultural space (Visit Copenhagen).
History
The first bridge (1618–1620)
The first bridge between Copenhagen and Christianshavn was built between 1618 and 1620. Commissioned by King Christian IV as part of the foundation of Christianshavn, it was known as the “Great Amager Bridge” or “the long bridge.” It connected Copenhagen’s walled city with the newly developed area of Christianshavn (Wikipedia).
The second bridge (1712)
A new wooden bridge replaced the first in 1712. It had four Hercules sculptures created by artist Johan Christopher Sturmberg. Neither the sculptures nor any images of them have survived (Wikipedia).
The third bridge (1816)
The third bridge was built in 1816 and continued to carry people and goods between Copenhagen and Christianshavn across the Inner Harbour. Less is documented about its design and construction (Wikipedia).
The fourth bridge (1869)
The fourth bridge was built in 1869 to accommodate growing traffic and commercial activity. It incorporated advances in engineering and materials, reflecting Copenhagen’s increasing industrialization (Wikipedia).
The fifth and current bridge (1937)
The current bridge, the fifth on the site, was inaugurated on December 17, 1937. Designed by Danish architect Kaj Gottlob, it is a bascule bridge that opens for passing ships. Wright, Thomsen & Kier carried out the construction in collaboration with Copenhagen shipyard Burmeister & Wain (Wikipedia).
The name
The bridge was originally known as Store Amager Bro (Great Amager Bridge) or Langebro (Long Bridge). Around 1700 it was referred to as Christianshavns Bro (Christianshavn’s Bridge). Its current name derives from Hans Knip, who became the bridge caretaker in 1641 and operated the bridge while collecting tolls from passing ships. His house, Knippenshus, led to the name Knippensbro. The modern form, which appears to derive from “knippel” (cudgel or truncheon), has been used since the second half of the 19th century but has never been officially approved (Wikipedia).
What to see
Bridge design and towers
Knippelsbro’s distinctive verdigris towers are a prominent feature of the bridge and appear on Denmark’s 200 kroner bill. Built at the Burmeister & Wain shipyard, the iron towers are clad in wood and copper. Barge cranes placed them into the bridge’s concrete foundations (Danish Architecture Center).
The bridge reflects the technological enthusiasm of the early 20th century. It was made wider than its predecessors to accommodate two lanes of traffic in each direction, with tram tracks down the centre. The design supported the movement of workers and goods as housing, industry and the airport on Amager developed. Its higher deck also allowed smaller boats to pass underneath without raising the bridge, reducing disruption to maritime and vehicular traffic (Danish Design Review).
The towers contain guard rooms, mechanical service areas, boiler rooms and operating rooms. At the top, 13.5 meters above the water, a balcony with windows all around provided a place for the bridgemaster to manage the drawbridge. The bridge is now controlled remotely and is unmanned (Danish Architecture Center).
Kulturtårnet
In 2017, for the bridge’s 80th anniversary, one tower was renovated and transformed from a break room for bridge officers into Kulturtårnet (the Cultural Tower). It hosts art, music, gastronomy and other cultural experiences, and offers a view over the city from Copenhagen harbour (Visit Copenhagen).
Practical visiting information
Visiting hours
Knippelsbro is accessible 24 hours a day. Kulturtårnet has specific visiting hours, which can vary depending on events and exhibitions. Check the Kulturtårnet website for current information.
Tickets
Crossing the bridge is free. Visiting Kulturtårnet may require a ticket, especially for special events and exhibitions. Prices and availability are listed on the official Kulturtårnet website.
Accessibility
The bridge is accessible to pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles. Its wide lanes and pedestrian pathways make it easy for everyone to cross. Kulturtårnet also offers accessibility options, including elevators and ramps.
Tips
- Photography The bridge offers views of the harbour and the city skyline.
- Guided tours A guided tour can provide more information about Knippelsbro and its surroundings.
Nearby places
Nearby attractions include Christianshavn, the Church of Our Saviour and Freetown Christiania.
FAQ
What are the visiting hours for Knippelsbro?
Knippelsbro is accessible 24/7, but Kulturtårnet has specific visiting hours. Check its official website for details.
Do I need a ticket to visit Knippelsbro?
Access to the bridge is free. Tickets are only required for special events and exhibitions at Kulturtårnet.
Is Knippelsbro accessible for disabled visitors?
Yes. The bridge and Kulturtårnet offer accessibility options, including elevators and ramps.
What other attractions are near Knippelsbro?
Nearby attractions include Christianshavn, the Church of Our Saviour and Freetown Christiania.
