The Little Mermaid

Introduction

Den Lille Havfrue, or The Little Mermaid, is not just a statue; it is a symbol of Denmark's rich cultural and literary heritage. Located on the Langelinie promenade in Copenhagen, this bronze statue was inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's famous fairy tale, first published in 1837. The story tells of a young mermaid who sacrifices everything to be with a human prince she loves. Commissioned by Carl Jacobsen, the son of Carlsberg's founder, and created by sculptor Edvard Eriksen, the statue was unveiled on August 23, 1913 (Visit Copenhagen). Since then, it has become one of the most visited landmarks in Denmark, drawing millions of tourists every year. This comprehensive guide aims to provide you with detailed information about the statue's history, cultural significance, visitor tips, and practical details like visiting hours and ticket information. Whether you're a history enthusiast or a casual traveler, this guide will ensure you make the most of your visit to this iconic monument.

History of Den Lille Havfrue (The Little Mermaid)

Origins and Inspiration

Den Lille Havfrue, or The Little Mermaid, is a bronze statue situated on a rock by the waterside at the Langelinie promenade in Copenhagen, Denmark. The statue was inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale "The Little Mermaid," first published in 1837. Andersen's story tells the tale of a young mermaid who sacrifices everything to be with a human prince she loves. The statue was commissioned by Carl Jacobsen, son of the founder of Carlsberg, after he was captivated by a ballet performance based on the fairy tale at the Royal Danish Theatre (Visit Copenhagen).

Creation and Unveiling

The statue was created by sculptor Edvard Eriksen and unveiled on August 23, 1913. Eriksen used his wife, Eline Eriksen, as the model for the statue's body, while the head was modeled after ballerina Ellen Price, who performed in the ballet that inspired Jacobsen. The statue stands at 1.25 meters (4.1 feet) tall and weighs approximately 175 kilograms (385 pounds) (Denmark.dk).

Symbolism and Cultural Significance

The Little Mermaid has become an iconic symbol of Copenhagen and Denmark, representing the country's rich literary heritage and its connection to the sea. The statue's melancholic expression and poised posture capture the essence of Andersen's tragic tale, making it a poignant reminder of the themes of love, sacrifice, and longing. Over the years, the statue has become a beloved landmark, attracting millions of visitors from around the world (Copenhagen Post).

Vandalism and Restoration

Despite its popularity, the statue has been subjected to numerous acts of vandalism over the years. It has been decapitated multiple times, had its arm sawed off, and has been doused in paint. Each time, the statue has been meticulously restored to its original condition. The repeated vandalism has sparked debates about the statue's security and the measures needed to protect it (BBC News).

Relocation and Replicas

In 2010, the statue was temporarily relocated to the Danish Pavilion at the World Expo in Shanghai, China, marking the first time it had left Copenhagen since its unveiling. The move was part of an effort to promote Danish culture and attract international attention. During its absence, a video installation by Chinese artist Ai Weiwei was displayed at the statue's usual location, allowing visitors to see the statue in real-time from Shanghai (The Guardian).

There are also several replicas of The Little Mermaid statue around the world, including in Solvang, California, and Kimballton, Iowa, in the United States, as well as in Piatra Neamț, Romania, and Seoul, South Korea. These replicas serve as a testament to the global impact of Andersen's fairy tale and the enduring appeal of the statue (Atlas Obscura).

Influence on Popular Culture

The Little Mermaid statue has had a significant influence on popular culture, inspiring various adaptations and references in literature, film, and art. The most notable adaptation is Disney's animated film "The Little Mermaid," released in 1989, which brought Andersen's story to a new generation and solidified the mermaid's place in popular culture. The statue itself has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and advertisements, further cementing its status as a cultural icon (Smithsonian Magazine).

Visiting Information

Visiting Hours

The Little Mermaid statue is accessible 24/7, as it is located in an open public space. However, the best time to visit is during daylight hours to fully appreciate the statue and its surroundings.

Tickets and Admission

There is no fee to visit the statue; it is free to the public. However, guided tours of Copenhagen that include a stop at The Little Mermaid may have associated costs.

Travel Tips

• Getting There: The statue is easily accessible by public transport. You can take a bus or a train to Østerport Station and then walk to Langelinie promenade.
• Nearby Attractions: While visiting, you can also explore nearby attractions such as Kastellet, Amalienborg Palace, and the Gefion Fountain.
• Photography: Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting for photographs. Be mindful of other visitors who may also want to take pictures.
• Accessibility: The promenade is wheelchair accessible, but the immediate area around the statue can be rocky and uneven.
• Safety: Keep an eye on your belongings, as the area can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Special Events and Tours

Guided tours are available and can provide insightful information about the statue's history and significance. Special events occasionally take place near the statue, especially during cultural festivals.

Preservation Efforts

Given its historical and cultural significance, efforts have been made to preserve The Little Mermaid statue for future generations. The Danish government and various cultural organizations have implemented measures to protect the statue from vandalism and environmental damage. These efforts include regular maintenance, surveillance, and public awareness campaigns to educate visitors about the importance of preserving this iconic landmark (Copenhagen Municipality).

FAQ

Is there an entrance fee to see The Little Mermaid? No, there is no entrance fee; it is free to visit.

What are the best times to visit The Little Mermaid? The statue is accessible 24/7, but daylight hours are best for viewing and photography.

Are there guided tours available? Yes, several guided tours include The Little Mermaid statue as part of their itinerary.

How do I get to The Little Mermaid statue? Public transport options include buses and trains to Østerport Station, followed by a short walk.

Is the statue wheelchair accessible? The promenade is wheelchair accessible, but the immediate area around the statue can be rocky.